Most athletes slow down when the doctors say, “You should rest.” But Mike Trout, one of Major League Baseball’s greatest stars, has never been one to follow the script.
Just months after suffering a painful bone bruise in his left knee — the same knee that underwent surgery in 2023 — Trout is not only back in the Los Angeles Angels lineup but pushing hard to earn a 12th career All-Star selection.
“I’ve been feeling great… sometimes you try to do too much and get out of your swing,” Trout said following a recent loss to the Astros, downplaying concerns after an 0-for-5 performance.
Despite the tough outing, Trout’s numbers since returning on May 30 are more than solid. In 22 games, he’s slashing .291/.400/.418 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and a trademark disciplined approach at the plate. It’s a performance many wouldn’t expect from a player still battling discomfort.
Trout’s comeback hasn’t been entirely smooth. His knee continues to feel “achy” after games, leading the Angels to take a cautious approach. Rather than returning to center field, where Trout built his reputation as a Gold Glove-caliber defender, he has served exclusively as a designated hitter.
“For now, he’ll DH,” said manager Ron Washington. “We’re not going to do anything to hurt Mike. He wants to be complete. But we don’t want him out there until he’s 100 percent.”
This strategy seems to be working. Since Trout’s return, the Angels have gone 13–10, a remarkable uptick in performance for a team that struggled early in the season. His bat has provided much-needed stability in the middle of the lineup, and his mere presence has lifted clubhouse morale.
Despite playing fewer games than many of his peers, Trout is currently ranked fourth among AL outfielders in fan voting for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, set to be held in Atlanta. If he’s selected, it would mark his 12th appearance — a testament to his enduring excellence and popularity.
“It’s just a little achy… if I get a couple days where it feels good, I’ll get back out there [in the field],” Trout said in an interview with MLB.com.
With voting still open, Trout’s chances remain strong. He’s not just playing through pain — he’s reminding the baseball world why he’s one of the game’s all-time greats.
This latest chapter in Mike Trout’s career isn’t just about numbers — it’s about grit. It’s about a player who refuses to let injuries or age define his legacy. At 33, with three MVP trophies and a Hall of Fame résumé, he could have taken the safe route.
Instead, he’s chosen to fight, to produce, and to inspire — perhaps more than ever before.