Trout expected to play in All-Star Game despite back spasms
By JOE REEDY
AP Sports Writer
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Mike Trout is still expected to play in next week’s All-Star Game despite dealing with upper back spasms.
The Los Angeles Angels superstar wasn’t in the lineup for Wednesday’s game against the Astros and could miss at least the next two games. Trout Tuesday night’s loss to Houston during the fifth inning.
The three-time AL MVP was selected earlier this month to appear in his 10th All-Star Game, which will be played next Tuesday at Dodger Stadium.
“We’ve talked to him about that. He’s expected to be available for that game,” trainer Mike Frostad said Wednesday. “He’s been dealing with a lot of stuff throughout the entire year. And, you know, this is just one more thing to add to the pile. He’s got a good pain threshold. He’s played through a lot.”
Frostad said MRI and CT scans on Trout’s back did not show any muscle strains or tightness. Trout first mentioned having back spasms last week while the team was in Miami for a series against the Marlins, the trainer said.
Trout — who is hitting .270 with 24 homers and 51 RBIs — has been bothered by several minor injuries this year. He is 6 for 36 (.167) with one homer, four RBIs and 16 strikeouts this month for the Angels, who have dropped nine of 10.
Astros manager Dusty Baker, who will manage the AL squad, said he discussed Trout’s status with Angels interim manager Phil Nevin during batting practice.
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