Mike Trout Injury Update: 11x All-Star's 'late-July return' uncertain, Angels outfielder exits first rehab game early due to left knee soreness

The Los Angeles Angels were hit with a disappointing update after Mike Trout was removed two innings into a Triple-A rehab game due to left knee soreness, the club said. The soreness was reported to be in his surgically repaired left knee, rendering him day-to-day for now. In the only at-bat for Triple-A Salt Lake, Trout was struck out.

The 11-time All-Star was in line to return this week but the latest news suggests that may no longer be the case. Trout has been out of major league action since his last game against the Philadelphia Phillies on April 29. He underwent surgery to repair his left meniscus the following month, the recovery of which set his return timeline to late July to early August.

Over the past few months, Trout has been doing well in his recovery, passing hurdles to begin his Triple-A assignment. He was slated to play five innings of the ball game but the soreness rendered him to exit early.

Before hitting the injured list in April, Trout was hitting .220 to go with 10 home runs, six stolen bases and 14 RBIs.

Ron Washington is taking a wait-and-watch approach in regards to Mike Trout's return

Ahead of Tuesday's game against the Seattle Mariners, manager Ron Washington said Trout was slated to play five innings as a designated hitter, followed by seven innings on Thursday while playing in the outfield. Those plans certainly changed following his latest injury hiccup.

"Wait and see how things go each day," Washington said via ESPN. "He's not going to want to come back unless he's sure. We are very happy to be close to having him back."

Ahead of Tuesday's action with Salt Lake City at Smith's ballpark, Trout was excited (via KSL Sports):

“It brings back a lot of good memories,” Trout said. “Coming back, obviously, this isn’t where I want to be, but I’m living it up. I’m here now, so I’ve gotta get the work in and enjoy it.”

Angels fans will look on and hope the latest injury setback isn't anything serious and that Mike Trout can return to the majors as soon as possible.