MLB: Mike Trout far from return after having stitches removed from surgery on broken hand

Mike Trout is making progress in his recovery from a broken bone in his left hand, but three-time AL MVP still isn’t close to a return.

Trout h stitches removed this week following surgery to repair his broken hamate bone, slugger said Friday. His hand is still bruised and scabbed, and it must heal fully before he can resume swinging a bat.

Trout has been out since July 3, when he hurt his hand on a swing. He is doing mobility work and throwing, but gripping a bat is more difficult.

Angels projected Trout would be out for six to eight weeks immediately after his injury, and forecast hasn’t changed significantly, manager Phil Nevin said.

Trout, who was elected by fans to start in All-Star Game for 10th consecutive season, is batting .263 with 18 homers, 44 RBIs and an .862 OPS this season. He has missed large portions of past three seasons with injuries, including all three All-Star Games since 2019.

Despite Trout’s absence, Angels (49-48) have won four of five heing into ir home series with Pittsburgh Pirates that began Friday night. Los Angeles is attempting to get back in thick of AL playoff race after losing ground with a 1-10 swoon around All-Star break.