The injury-plagued career of Angels star Mike Trout has suffered another devastating blow, with Trout announcing Thursday that he will miss the rest of the season due to a torn meniscus in his left knee.
“Since my initial surgery on May 3rd to repair my meniscus, my rehabilitation proved longer and more difficult that anticipated. After months of hard work, I was devastated yesterday when an MRI showed a tear in my meniscus that will require surgery again — ending my hopes of returning this season,” Trout posted on X Thursday.
“Playing and competing is a huge part of my life. This is equally as heartbreaking and frustrating for me as it is for you, the fans. I understand that I may have disappointed many, but believe me, I will do everything I can do to come back even stronger,” the post continued.
“I will continue to help my team and teammates from the dugout as we press forward into the second half of the season. Thank you for your support.”
Trout’s career started off with a bang. He was named the American League’s Rookie of the Year in 2012 and its Most Valuable Player three times in his first nine seasons — in 2014, 2016 and 2019.
Since that last MVP award, however, the slugging outfielder and designated hitter has struggled to stay on the field. A series of injuries limited Trout to 53 games in 2020, 36 in 2021, 119 in 2022 and 82 games in 2023.
He hit .220 with 10 homers and 14 RBI in 29 games for the Angels this season. The team is in the midst of another in a long series of disappointing campaigns, with a record of 47-61 as of Thursday, fourth place in the five-team American League West.
Trout, who will turn 33 on Aug. 7, signed a 12-year, $426.5 million contract with the Angels in March of 2019.