LA Angels Lose Cameron Maybin to Knee Injury

ANAHEIM, CA - JULY 18: Cameron Maybin
ANAHEIM, CA - JULY 18: Cameron Maybin /
facebooktwitterreddit

The LA Angels began a highly anticipated series against the Nationals on Tuesday. However, they lost a key contributor when Cameron Maybin slid awkwardly on a steal attempt in the first inning. Immediate news does not sound very encouraging for the Halo’s leadoff hitter.

The LA Angels have had their share of injuries this season. Superstar Mike Trout returned from the disabled list less than a week ago, while five Angels starters are currently on the DL. Throughout all of this, Maybin has been a solid contributor in the field and at the plate.

More from Halo Hangout

In the first inning, Maybin notched a single to left field, his first since July 9th. The American League leader in stolen bases, 25, tried to add to that total before awkwardly sliding into second base. After originally being called safe, replay proved otherwise.

At first glance it appeared Maybin, who ended up doing an awkward splits, suffered a groin injury. He immediately waved for the trainer to come over, and he proceeded to examine his leg. He needed assistance off the field.

An MRI following the game revealed Maybin suffered a Grade 1 right MCL sprain. The usual recovery for this injury is 2-4 weeks.

Maybin has been slumping as of late, despite putting the ball in play consistently. On the year, he is hitting .236 with six home runs along with 50 runs scored. He was extremely important during Trout’s absence, helping keep the Halos in the Wild Card race.

Maybin has a lengthy injury history, only topping 140 games in a season in two out of eleven seasons.

Want your voice heard? Join the Halo Hangout team!

Write for us!

In terms of what the Angels are doing to respond to the injury, the Angels removed Shane Robinson from a Tripe-A game shortly after Maybin went down. Fans may have been expecting Eric Young Jr. to be reinstated to the lineup, but Robinson is hitting .464 in his last 15 games for Salt Lake, while EY Jr. is below .200 in the same stretch.

Next: Mike Trout vs. Bryce Harper

Maybin could possibly be done for the season, if his rehab stutters. In that case, the Angels playoff hopes will only get slimmer. This also removes the possibility of any trade rumors surrounding Maybin. Once again, it is “Next Man Up” for the LA Angels.