Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout has returned to the lineup after missing almost two months with an injury, but is it too late to make a difference?
That’s the question the MLB world is asking after the Angels activated the three-time AL MVP from the IL on Tuesday. Trout had not played since July 3, when he broke a bone in his hand and had to undergo surgery.
Trout missed 38 games and his absence hurt, as the Angels went 16-22 during that span.
The Angels went all-in at the trade deadline for a postseason push, trading some top talent for veterans, only to go into a tailspin in early August. Obviously, the lineup looks more formidable with Trout, but the team is facing an uphill climb in the playoff race. Los Angeles began the day 61-64 and nine games out of the final wild-card playoff spot.
They’re a long shot, but there is still a chance, and Trout’s big bat will make an immediate difference. He has 18 home runs and a .862 OPS this season.
The baseball world had mixed thoughts on whether Trout can save the Angels season.
MIKE TROUT IS BACK IN ACTION! Is it too late for the Angels to make a playoff push?
pic.twitter.com/LnH2oCyIvK— Bodog (@BodogCA) August 22, 2023