Los Angeles Angels’ superstar Mike Trout is eyeing a late July comeback from his knee operation, though he’s yet to set a definitive date for his return, as reported by MLB’s Rhett Bollinger. While Trout hasn’t started running or swinging the bat just yet, he’s been engaging in lighter activities such as playing catch and using an anti-gravity treadmill. This points towards the outfielder gradually increasing his rehab exercises.

Trout, who is 32, has been sidelined since April 29, following a surgery known as a partial medial meniscectomy. Before his injury, he was off to a solid start this season, boasting a batting average of .220, an on-base percentage of .325, and slugging .541 (138 OPS+), with 10 homers, 14 RBIs, and six steals in 29 games. Recognized as one of the elite talents in baseball history, his career numbers are extraordinary, including a 173 OPS+ and an estimated 86.1 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) as per Baseball Reference.

In recent years, injuries have significantly limited Trout’s playtime. Since the pandemic-affected 2020 season, he has managed to exceed the 100-game mark only once. With his anticipated return timeline, playing over 100 games this season is off the table.

As of Trout’s last appearance, the Angels had a record of 11-18. Since then, their performance has seen some ups and downs, with their current record at 35-46. During Trout’s absence, the team has gone 24-28 but recently showed promise by stringing together five wins in a row and ending June with a winning record of 14-10.

Trout, who is bound to the Angels until the 2030 season, addressed trade rumors earlier in the year. In February, he emphasized his commitment to the team despite acknowledging the possibility of a trade being beneficial in the future.

“I haven’t really thought about it,” Trout commented on the trade speculation. “But when I signed that contract, I’m loyal.”

With Trout’s hopeful return on the horizon, the Angels and their fans eagerly anticipate the resurgence of one of baseball’s most celebrated athletes.