The Los Angeles Angels are poised to receive a significant boost to their lineup with the anticipated return of Mike Trout. The organization has confirmed that the 33-year-old outfielder, who has been sidelined on the injured list since May 1 due to a knee injury, will be activated ahead of Friday's series opener against the Cleveland Guardians.

Trout sustained his knee injury on April 30 during a game against the Seattle Mariners. While attempting to run to first base, he landed awkwardly while stretching for the bag in the third inning. Despite remaining in the game for the bottom half of the inning, he was eventually replaced by Jo Adell in the top of the fourth. Two days later, the Angels placed Trout on the injured list after medical examinations revealed a bone bruise on his left knee, the same knee that underwent surgery twice last season to address meniscus injuries. Trout had originally torn the meniscus on April 29 and was in the process of rehabilitating when an MRI indicated a further tear, leading to surgery that concluded his 2024 season prematurely.

Injuries have considerably affected Trout's performance in recent years, as he has missed a minimum of 43 games in each of the last four seasons. The 2022 campaign marked the only time in that span that he played over 100 games, participating in 119 contests. This wear and tear has had a remarkable influence on his statistical output; the three-time AL MVP is currently hitting .179/.264/.462 in 121 plate appearances this season. Despite showcasing his power with nine home runs—placing him just one behind Aaron Judge prior to his injury—Trout has struggled with consistent contact, evidenced by a career-high strikeout rate of 29.8 percent. Nevertheless, the Angels will welcome his presence in the batting order, especially as they aim to improve upon their recent struggles, having scored only five runs during a five-game skid following their return to a .500 record built on their longest winning streak since 2014. The upcoming series against the Guardians will kick off a six-game road trip for the Angels, including an additional matchup against the Boston Red Sox.