### Mike Trout's Return: A Long-Awaited Comeback for the Angels - Mike Trout, the Los Angeles Angels' star outfielder, has made his return to the lineup after a month-long absence due to a bone bruise in his left knee. Initially expected to return on Monday against the Boston Red Sox, Trout was activated on May 30, 2025, and played in the series opener against the Cleveland Guardians on May 31, 2025. This marks a significant moment for the Angels, who have struggled in his absence, losing five consecutive games prior to his return [https://www.usnews.com/news/sports/articles/2025-05-30/trout-returns-to-angels-lineup-in-a-new-spot-after-being-activated-off-the-injured-list]. ### Breakdown of Mike Trout's Return and Performance 1. **Injury Background** - Trout sustained a bone bruise on April 30 while attempting to beat out a grounder, leading to his placement on the injured list [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/angels_star_mike_trout_activated_in_lineup_as_dh/s1_17044_42265049]. - He missed a total of 26 games during his recovery [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/mike_trout_returns_to_go_1_for_5_as_angels_top_guardians/s1_17044_42265779]. 2. **Activation and Lineup Changes** - Trout was activated on May 30, 2025, and played as the designated hitter, batting fifth in the lineup against the Guardians [https://www.latimes.com/sports/angels/story/2025-05-30/angels-mike-trout-return-injured-list]. - In a corresponding move, outfielder Matthew Lugo was optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/angels_star_mike_trout_activated_in_lineup_as_dh/s1_17044_42265049]. 3. **Performance in Return Game** - In his first game back, Trout went 1-for-5, contributing to the Angels' 4-1 victory over the Guardians [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/mike_trout_returns_to_go_1_for_5_as_angels_top_guardians/s1_17044_42265779]. - The Angels' win snapped a four-game losing streak, highlighting the importance of Trout's return to the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/mike_trout_returns_to_go_1_for_5_as_angels_top_guardians/s1_17044_42265779]. ### Key Statistics and Context - **Trout's Season Performance Before Injury** - Prior to his injury, Trout had a batting average of .179 with nine home runs and 18 RBIs over 29 games [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/reports_angels_set_to_activate_mike_trout_on_friday/s1_17044_42261447]. - His on-base percentage was .264, indicating a challenging start to the season [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/reports_angels_set_to_activate_mike_trout_on_friday/s1_17044_42261447]. - **Angels' Performance Without Trout** - The Angels struggled in Trout's absence, losing five games in a row after a previous eight-game winning streak [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/angels_facing_major_decision_after_mike_trout_news/s1_17615_42240451]. ### Conclusion: A Promising Return for the Angels - **Trout's activation is a pivotal moment for the Angels**, who have faced challenges in his absence. His return as a designated hitter and his performance in the first game back suggest potential for improvement in the team's fortunes. - **Key Takeaways:** 1. Trout's injury recovery and return are crucial for the Angels' lineup. 2. His performance will be closely monitored as the team aims to regain momentum. 3. The Angels hope that Trout's presence will help them overcome recent struggles and improve their season record. In summary, Mike Trout's return to the Angels lineup is a significant development for the team, and his performance will be critical as they look to turn their season around [https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/news-mike-trout-makes-feelings-clear-activated-lengthy-il-stint].