“Mike Trout is immensely popular” - MLB journalist describes the excitement and anticipation of fans surrounding veteran slugger’s return

Los Angeles Angels fans received some good news regarding their star outfielder Mike Trout. After being sidelined since April 29 with a torn meniscus, he is set to make his return.

Trout will begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday in Triple-A with Salt Lake City. This will be his first in-game action since having surgery on May 3 to correct the issue in his left knee.

It has been tough for the Halos with their leader down on the IL. The Athletic's Sam Blum went on a recent airing of Foul Territory TV to discuss the buzz around the building with Trout's return imminent.

"Mike Trout is immensely popular among Angels fans, so, he's a draw for people to come out and watch. I enjoy covering a player like him. He's the best of the best, and certainly a great person too," - said Blum.

While there is some buzz surrounding his return, Blum could not help but mention the time that it has taken. He compared Trout to other sports stars with a meniscus injury who have returned much quicker.

"I use the example of tennis player Novak Djokovic, who had meniscus surgery in June and made the Wimbledon finals a couple weeks later" - said Blum.

While it has taken Trout some time to make his way off the IL, there was no real reason to push it. The Halos are likely not making the postseason this year, so why rush your star player back?

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What are the plans for Mike Trout when he returns to the Angels lineup?

Los Angeles Angels - Mike Trout (Photo via IMAGN)

While Mike Trout still has some way to go until he returns to the Angels lineup, fans are wondering what is in store for the slugger when he does. Manager Ron Washington has stated to reporters that he would take his time with Trout.

The initial thought is to have him start as the designated hitter when he returns. Then after some time, he can make his transition back to the outfield. The team wants to limit the amount the slugger will be running when he first comes back.

There is no timetable for Trout's return, but MLB.com's Rhett Bollinger has suggested he could return as early as Thursday's series against the Oakland Athletics. If that is the case, there could be a surge in fans at the team's next homestand.