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Trout diagnosed with torn thumb ligament, surgery an option

Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports

Mike Trout is set to land on the disabled list for the first time in his career, as the Los Angeles Angels superstar outfielder is set to endure a lengthy spell on the sidelines after being diagnosed with a torn ligament in his left thumb Monday, general manager Billy Eppler said Monday, according to Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times.

"At this point in time, surgery is an option," Eppler told DiGiovanna. "He'll be out for more than a couple of weeks, I can tell you that."

Trout, who has never been on the disabled list in his seven-year career, injured his thumb as he slid headfirst to steal second base against the Marlins during the fifth inning on Sunday. Though he didn't leave the game immediately following the play, he was replaced by Ben Revere in center field to begin the sixth.

Following the game, Trout attempted to downplay the injury, though he did admit there was some concern as he headed for an MRI.

"It's just sore," Trout told The Associated Press. "It's a scary thing. The X-rays showed no fracture, so that's relieving. We'll come in (Monday) and see how it feels.

"Hopefully it's just sore, just a bad jam. ... I'm obviously bummed out. But if I wake up (Monday) and it feels a little better, then we'll see how it goes."

In line with the rest of his career, Trout had once again established himself as one of the best hitters in MLB this season. Through 47 games in 2017, he is slashing .337.461/.742 (228 OPS+) with 16 home runs.

"It's really hard to quantify his loss, but I think you'll feel the impact, and it will require multiple people stepping up in his absence," Eppler told DiGiovanna. "This team will continue to fight, as it always does, but you're losing the heart of your order, the middle of your defense, and a leader in the dugout, so it's something to absorb."

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