Fallen Angels

07/06/2023

By: Jeff Yoder

Angels Suffer Three Injuries in 24 Hours Amid Struggles

For most, July 4th was filled with fun, family, food, and fireworks. But for the Angels, it was anything but celebratory. It’s no secret that the Angels have been struggling at the plate this season, despite Ohtani leading the MLB in home runs. Recent injuries to Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon only complicate this problem. Trout broke his left hamate bone in his wrist during Monday’s loss to the Padres. He was placed on the 10-day injured list following his exit. However, Trout underwent surgery Wednesday and is expected to return in 4-8 weeks.

To make matters worse, Anthony Rendon suffered a left shin contusion after fouling a ball off his leg in Tuesday’s loss to the Padres. He later walked out of the clubhouse on crutches and said he could put some weight on his foot, but it was painful.

There is no doubt that Angels fans are frustrated with these injuries, but they aren’t the only ones. After Tuesday’s game, Rendon shared his frustrations. “It’s almost comical. It’s just frustrating,” Rendon said. “I don’t know what to do. I’m lost.” When asked if he would be put on the IL, Rendon said he didn’t know yet, but it wasn’t looking good. Rendon has been on and off the IL all season, which explains his disappointment with his latest injury.

Ohtani’s Setback

Though not as concerning as the injuries to Trout and Rendon, Shohei Ohtani is battling his own problems. Ohtani had to exit in the sixth inning of Tuesday’s loss due to a blister on his right middle finger despite being on extra rest. The affected finger is the same one that suffered a cracked fingernail last week. Unfortunately for the Angels, his finger is proving to be a recurring problem, even after extended rest. Ohtani will still hit, but it is unlikely that we will see him on the mound until after the All-Star Break.

Trade Deadline

The Angels couldn’t be suffering these injuries at a worse time: They are in the midst of fighting for the final Wild Card spot, and are currently on the outside looking in. Now, the trade deadline is rapidly approaching while rumors about an Ohtani trade intensify.

After the trade deadline, there isn’t much time to catch up: It’s when baseball gets real. Unfortunately for the Angels, August 1 is coming quickly while they’re stuck in a downward spiral.

Yahoo!: Shohei Ohtani, Anthony Rendon Exit Early After Mike Trout hits IL

Photo: Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images