Tommy John surgery for Braves' Rodriguez
Elbow operation to sideline southpaw through 2016 season
ATLANTA -- When the Braves acquired Paco Rodriguez from the Dodgers on July 30, they hoped his injured left elbow would be healthy enough for him to be a part of their bullpen in September. But it now looks like the left-handed reliever will remain sidelined through the end of the 2016 season.
Rodriguez underwent Tommy John surgery last week after he experienced prolonged left elbow discomfort while working out at the Braves' complex in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., for the past two months. Dr. James Andrews performed the procedure, which will likely require at least 12 months of rehab.
Rodriguez's velocity decreased as he made 18 appearances for the Dodgers through the first two months of the season. He was placed on the disabled list on May 3, and a bone spur was surgically removed from his left elbow on July 2.
It was initially believed Rodriguez would be ready to pitch again in early September. But the continued discomfort led to him requiring a more significant surgical procedure.
The Braves acquired Rodriguez, Hector Olivera and Minor League pitcher Zach Bird from the Dodgers for top prospect Jose Peraza, Alex Wood, Jim Johnson and Luis Avilan.