LATEST REPORT: Los Angeles Angels slugger Mike Trout is expected to be activated off the injured list on Friday after he receives a shocking message from…see more

In a surprising turn of events, Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout is expected to be activated off the injured list this Friday — but not for the reasons fans might expect. According to team insiders, the veteran outfielder received a “shocking message” earlier this week that reportedly helped accelerate his decision to return to the lineup ahead of schedule.

Trout, who has been sidelined for several weeks due to a nagging wrist injury, had been making steady progress in his rehab. While his return was originally projected for mid-June, sources close to the team say a personal message from a former Angels teammate — none other than Albert Pujols — lit a fire under the three-time MVP.

“Albert reached out with a message that really hit home for Mike,” a source familiar with the exchange revealed. “It wasn’t just about baseball. It was about legacy, leadership, and not wasting the moments you have left in the game.”

Trout, 33, has faced increasing speculation about his future with the Angels amid the team’s ongoing struggles and his own injury woes. Despite his setbacks, he remains one of the most respected figures in the sport, and his return could provide a much-needed boost for the struggling franchise.

The Angels, currently fourth in the AL West, have lacked consistent offense in Trout’s absence. His activation on Friday — expected to be during their home series against the Seattle Mariners — could be the turning point they desperately need.

“He’s been ramping up, taking live batting practice, and running drills at near full speed,” said Angels manager Ron Washington. “Mike told us he’s ready. When a guy like him says that, you listen.”

Fans are eagerly awaiting Trout’s return, not just for his bat, but for his leadership on and off the field. If the Angels hope to salvage their season and make a playoff push, they’ll need their captain at the helm.

More details are expected during the team’s press conference Friday morning.

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