When Will Mike Trout Return and Be Back? Fantasy Baseball Injury Update

When will Mike Trout return and play? Will Mike Trout be back again this season? Read the latest fantasy baseball Mike Trout injury updates and return date for Week 20 of the 2024 MLB season.

Mike Trout, the once-undisputed king of fantasy baseball, has seen his crown slip in recent years due to a relentless string of injuries. The three-time MVP and perennial All-Star has been a staple in the first few rounds of fantasy drafts for over a decade, but his recent health struggles have cast doubt on his reliability moving forward. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, fantasy managers are left wondering, has Father Time finally caught up with the Angels' superstar?

Understanding Trout's injury history and future outlook is critical for draft strategy in 2025. Over the past few years, Trout has endured a series of significant injuries, including a torn meniscus in his left knee that required multiple surgeries in 2024, a fractured left hamate bone in 2023, and a right calf strain that limited him to just 36 games in 2021.

These injuries have not only sidelined him for extended periods but have also raised concerns about his long-term durability. For fantasy baseball managers, balancing Trout's immense talent and potential production with the risks associated with his injury history will be key in determining his draft value next season.

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Mike Trout Injury Update for Fantasy Baseball

The 2024 campaign has been a difficult one for Mike Trout and his fantasy owners. After a torrid 29-game start, where he hit 10 HRs and stole six bases, looking like his vintage self, Trout tore his left meniscus on April 29 against the Phillies.

This injury required surgery on May 3, setting off a grueling rehabilitation process. Despite his efforts to return, Trout’s recovery was slow. By mid-June, he had not yet started running, indicating a slower-than-expected rehabilitation.

pic.twitter.com/BPt1KRh0XZ

— Mike Trout (@MikeTrout) August 1, 2024

In late July, Trout attempted a rehab assignment with Triple-A Salt Lake but was removed after just two innings due to knee discomfort. A follow-up MRI revealed a new tear in the same meniscus, necessitating another surgery, officially ending his season.

Mike Trout Fantasy Baseball Outlook

As fantasy managers look ahead to 2025, it's essential to approach Trout with a mix of cautious optimism and strategic planning.

Targeting him in rounds four to six could be the sweet spot, potentially landing a player with first-round talent at a steep discount. This approach balances the immense upside of a healthy Trout with the inherent risks posed by his injury history.

Mike Trout was the human highlight reel in yesterday's @Angels Home Opener #HalosIn30 pic.twitter.com/0QKhqu2fBK

— Bally Sports West (@BallySportWest) April 5, 2019

Monitoring his offseason recovery will be crucial, as any positive reports could elevate his draft stock. Fantasy managers should not hesitate to pull the trigger if the stars align and Trout appears to be regaining his form.

Despite the recent setbacks, a healthy Trout can still be a game-changer, and while caution is advised, the potential reward of drafting Trout in the mid-rounds could be significant for those willing to take the calculated risk.

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