Trout returns to Angels lineup after 3 games out

Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout returned to the lineup for Thursday's 6-2 loss to the Houston Astros, hitting a double after missing three games because of a calf injury.

Trout batted second as the designated hitter for the final game of the series and went 1-for-4 on the night.

However, as one Angels slugger returned, another departed on Thursday night as Albert Pujols left the game with left hamstring tightness. He is considered day-to-day.

Trout left Sunday's 6-3 win over the Seattle Mariners after the second inning. An MRI performed Monday had revealed a small strain in Trout's right calf.

Manager Brad Ausmus said Wednesday that Trout would be evaluated again before playing.

"Hopefully he'll be able to go [Thursday] full bore," Ausmus said.

The 27-year-old is batting .305/.455/.666, on a pace to compete for his third MVP trophy. He's 12-for-32 with eight home runs in nine games this month.