Trout set for milestone All-Star appearance despite injury concerns

LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout has been named an American League All-Star starter, marking another milestone in his career despite currently being sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Trout has recorded 17 home runs, 36 RBIs, a .234 average and an .866 OPS in 74 games this season. This will be his 11th All-Star start for the Angels, placing him among elite company for most All-Star starts with a single franchise.

The All-Star Game will be held near his hometown of Millville, New Jersey, adding special significance for Trout, who lives in the area during the offseason.

“I love playing in it, but it’s an experience for my kids and family,” Trout said. “It’s going to be good to be able to stay at my house and enjoy a few days.”

He is expected to return to the Angels lineup on Tuesday for their road series against the Texas Rangers.

The Angels are struggling, having lost five straight games after an 8-1 defeat to the Boston Red Sox. Manager Kurt Suzuki said there was “nothing much you can do” after the loss.

Right-hander Ryan Johnson (1-3, 7.40 ERA) will start Sunday’s series finale for Los Angeles, making his first career appearance against Boston.

Boston, meanwhile, continues in strong form behind left-hander Ranger Suarez (4-3, 2.94 ERA), who will start after being named to his second All-Star Game following his move from the Philadelphia Phillies to the Red Sox.