Mike Trout hopes to play in All-Star Game if thumb is healed

Mike Trout isn't expected to return from his thumb injury until after the All-Star break, but the Los Angeles Angels star said he's looking to return earlier than that.

"Before the All-Star break, right at the All-Star break, just depending on how it goes," Trout said Tuesday of his target to return. "Push it. I want to make sure it's right. I don't want it to linger. I want to play tomorrow, but obviously I can't. We'll see how it goes the next week or two."

The reigning American League MVP also spoke of his desire to be healthy enough to play in this year's All-Star Game, should he be voted in.

"It would be pretty cool just to, hopefully, be back by then," Trout said.

This year's All-Star Game will be hosted by the Miami Marlins on July 11, and Trout is currently second in voting among AL outfielders.

The 25-year-old two-time MVP was batting .337 with 16 home runs and 36 RBIs before tearing a ligament in his left thumb while sliding in to second base in a May 28 game.