Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington has probably had to share some strange updates with reporters during his 28 years as a manager and nine seasons as a Major League captain. But the news that he had to give to the media about infielder Miguel Sanó could be historic in his career.
Ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Cleveland Guardians, Washington provided an update on Sanó, who has been sidelined with left knee inflammation since April 26. The veteran slugger began a minor league rehab assignment last week with the Angels’ Arizona Complex League team.
However, Sanó’s timeline for rejoining the Angels encountered an unusual setback, according to Washington. He told reporters that Sanó suffered a burn on his left knee from leaving a heating pad on for too long.
A new one: Miguel Sanó had a small setback in his rehabilitation that will delay him a couple of days.
He left a heat pack on his knee for too long without protection and got burned.
-Sam Blum (@SamBlum3) May 26, 2024
No further details were provided, such as how long Sanó left the heating pad on or how high the temperature was on the device. But not using the padding was probably his biggest mistake.
The injury is not considered. Washington said he could add a couple of days to Sanó’s recovery schedule. So the mistake is something the Angels can laugh (or shake their heads at) later. Especially when compared to the much more serious injuries suffered by Mike Trout and Anthony Rendon.
Sanó signed a minor league contract with the Angels in spring training after missing the 2023 season with a cartilage issue in his left knee and an injured tibia. He showed up at the camp in Tempe, Arizona. 60 pounds less than the previous year.
In 21 games (71 plate appearances) this season, Sanó has hit for a .262 average and .713 OPS with three doubles, one home run and five RBIs. Defensively he has played third base, first base and designated hitter.
The Angels entered Sunday’s game with a 20-32 record that places them last in the American League West.