MLB Reacts to Major Mike Trout News on Friday

After missing nearly a month with a bone bruise in his surgically repaired left knee, Mike Trout jogged onto the field at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Friday and promptly reminded baseball fans why he’s still the game’s gold standard. 

Heading into Trout’s return, the Los Angeles Angels sat at 25-30, fourth place in the American League West and five games behind the division-leading Seattle Mariners. 

The Angels were coming off a five-game losing streak and faced mounting questions about their ability to contend in a stacked AL West.

As Trout made his way from the dugout, the MLB took to X to celebrate the moment with a simple caption, "I’m back. – Mike."

The Angels stumbled through the 2024 campaign, closing the year with a 63-99 record, their worst mark in franchise history and dead last in the AL West under manager Ron Washington.

Trout himself missed significant time with a torn meniscus and further knee issues, underscoring how central Trout is as the clubhouse’s cornerstone.

Trout entered his 15th MLB season in 2025 with credentials that few peers can match, including being a three-time AL MVP, 11-time All-Star, nine-time Silver Slugger and two-time MLB All-Star Game MVP.

Los Angeles Angels right fielder Mike Trout (27).

Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Trout initially suffered a bone bruise in his left knee on April 30 against the Mariners and was placed on the injured list for exactly one month,

Even at .179/.264/.462 with nine home runs and 18 RBIs in 29 games before the injury, Trout’s mere presence in the lineup instantly shifts the outlook in LA.