The Los Angeles Angels could be without Mike Trout for an undetermined period of time after the status of his current injury was worse than originally thought.
Trout had not appeared in a game since July 12 and his availability had continued to be pushed back. The 30-year-old was forced to miss the All-Star Game after being selected for the 10th time in his big league career.
The Angels initially diagnosed Trout with back spasms and then placed on the injured list with rib cage inflammation, but this new diagnosis has brought concern to the future Hall of Famer’s overall health, via Jeff Fletcher of the O.C. Register:
“I appreciate all the prayer requests, but my career isn’t over,” Trout said a few hours after news broke that he has a rare back condition, adding that “the last two days have been huge steps. I’m excited with the way it’s going. I’m happy with it.”
Trout was smiling throughout the interview, seemingly amused that the earlier report had spawned such “exaggeration.” He said people had inferred too much from the news that what the Angels had been calling a strained rib cage was more specifically a “costovertebral dysfunction at T5.”
Angels Head athletic trainer Mike Frostad explained that Trout had received a cortisone injection last week, but the effects would take roughly two weeks to see the full benefits. With where he is at after the initial shock and awe of the news, Trout will continue to do mostly cardio workouts and work to strengthen his core.
Asked if he will play again this season, Trout said: “Of course. That’s my goal.”
Since June 20, Trout has posted a batting average of .200, a .286 wOBA, and an 83 wRC+, illuminating the effects his injury probably had on his on-field play.
Trout commits to Team USA in 2023 World Baseball Classic
Trout revealed last week that he will be competing and serving as the captain for Team USA in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
“I was excited when [Team USA GM Tony Reagins] first came up and talked to me,” Trout said. “It means a lot. I missed the opportunity the first time and I knew this was a chance I can’t miss. It’ll be fun for the team that we put together, and I’m looking forward to it in March.”
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