ARLINGTON, Texas — Los Angeles Angels star Mike Trout wasted no time making his presence felt Wednesday, launching a home run in the eighth inning against the Texas Rangers in his first game back from the injured list.
Trout had been sidelined for 17 games after straining his right hamstring while running the bases on June 17. His return came at a perfect time — just one week before the All-Star Game, which will be held at Citizens Bank Park in his hometown area of Philadelphia. Trout grew up in Millville, New Jersey, roughly 40 miles from the ballpark.
Adding another layer of significance to Wednesday’s performance, the game marked the 15th anniversary of Trout’s major league debut with the Angels, which he made at just 19 years old.
Angels manager Kurt Suzuki slotted Trout into the second spot in the batting order as the designated hitter. Before the game, Suzuki was cautious about whether he would send Trout back out to play in the field.
“We’re going to obviously see how he feels. Maybe in the beginning, I take it out of his hands. Not really sure how I’m going to handle it yet, but he is ready to go,” Suzuki said.
Fans voted Trout in as a starter for the American League squad at next week’s All-Star Game. The 12-time All-Star had been unable to take part in the event since 2019, missing the 2021, 2022, and 2023 games due to injuries despite being selected each year.
The three-time AL Most Valuable Player and two-time All-Star Game MVP has put together a strong bounce-back season, clubbing 18 home runs across 75 games.
To open a roster spot for Trout’s return, the Angels designated infielder Donovan Walton for assignment.
