Mike Trout Returns to Angels, Ends Five-Game Losing Streak

Mike Trout returned to the Los Angeles Angels' lineup earlier than expected after missing 26 games due to a bone bruise in his left knee, marking his first time batting fifth in over 1,500 starts. In his comeback game against the Cleveland Guardians, Trout went 1-for-5 as the designated hitter and helped the Angels snap a five-game losing streak with a 4-1 victory. Manager Ron Washington noted Trout's solid at-bats despite limited live pitching recently and positioned him fifth to protect teammate Logan O'Hoppe, with plans to adjust Trout's lineup spot as he regains form. José Soriano pitched six scoreless innings, contributing to the Angels' win, while the Guardians' José Ramírez had his 21-game hitting streak ended. The game marked a significant milestone as it was the first time since Trout's rookie season that he started lower than third in the batting order. Overall, Trout's cautious but effective return is seen as a positive step for the Angels' lineup and season momentum.