“Show how you recover from it and come back strong” - Mike Trout receives positive advice from Ron Washington after season-ending injury

One of the most heartbreaking storylines of the 2024 season has been that of Mike Trout. The Los Angeles Angels superstar entered the year with his eyes set on carrying his team in the wake of Shohei Ohtani's departure in free agency.

Unsurprisingly, the future Hall of Famer came out of the gates swinging, racking up 10 home runs in only 29 games for the Angels. However, it's rare that good things ever last, as Mike Trout suffered a torn meniscus on his left knee that required surgery. Following the procedure, Trout ramped up his activity in the hopes of returning, only to tear his meniscus again, ending his season in the process.

At 33-year-old, it appears that Trout's best days might be behind him, at least from a health standpoint. Having one of the best players of his generation struggle to stay on the field is a shame for fans of the sport, however, he is expected to be ready to roll for next season. This, according to Angels manager Ron Washington, will be an opportunity to prove his doubters wrong.

"I told him that he could be a poster child for meniscus tears," Washington said during an interview on MLB Network Radio.

The veteran manager said that the three-time MVP could view the injury in a positive light:

"Show them how you recover from it and how you come back strong in the next year."

"The negativity that people might be thinking behind you getting hurt will go away," Washington added. "The best way for you to deal with it is to get yourself in the best shape you possibly can and put another MVP year together."

Mike Trout may need to adjust his style of play if he hopes to remain on the field

There is no denying that the Los Angeles Angels outfielder is one of the best players of the last 20 years, however, his durability issues and lack of playoff success may hold him back from the 'Greatest of All-Time' debate.

"Mike Trout officially out for the season. When he comes back, it has to be as a full-time DH. Have to keep him in the lineup whatever it takes - his time as a CF needs to be over" - @howaboutafresca

If Mike Trout is going to continue building on his Hall of Fame resume, he may need to adjust how he plays the game. The 11-time All-Star may need to reconsider playing in the outfield moving forward, instead becoming a designated hitter on a permanent basis. While this may not be a solution, it could help reduce the physical toll that the season could play on his body.