Dodgers Injury Update: Billingsley Has Torn Flexor Tendon In Right Arm
Billingsley sounds like he will opt for surgery, but hasn't decided for sure. Rehab w/o surgery could put his fixed ligament at risk.
— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) June 14, 2014
Regardless of the right-hander’s decision, he is unlikely to pitch again this season.
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Chad Billingsley’s attempt to work his way back from Tommy John surgery has been filled with both optimism and several moments of frustration.
In April, there was hope Billingsley could return to the Los Angeles Dodgers as early as May, however that never manifested. The right-hander’s latest setback came after he experienced discomfort in his surgically repaired elbow, which led to Billingsley undergoing an MRI.
According to the Dodgers, the results of the exam revealed a healthy UCL, but a torn flexor tendon:
Yesterday, an MRI of Chad Billingsley's right elbow indicated that the UCL ligament was ok, but he had a partial tear of his flexor tendon.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 13, 2014
Billingsley and Dr. Neal ElAttrache are considering what step to take next and more information is expected in the near future:
Chad BIllingsley and Dr. ElAttrache are considering treatment options and further information will be released in the coming days. #Dodgers
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 13, 2014
Billingsley was making progress in his recovery, as he threw a pair of simulated games before advancing to pitching in a game for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes May 8. The discomfort Billingsley felt is the second setback he’s experienced as he attempts to work his way back.
The previous also came during a bullpen session and Billingsley received platelet-rich plasma injection that correlated with him being shutdown. If Billingsley is able to overcome the latest obstacle, he said he envisions himself as a starting pitcher.
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Chad may eventually return; but if these injuries keep occurring, he may have to call it quits. He is not getting any younger. The Dodgers could definitely use him as he was 5 years ago and earlier.
If surgery will heal a torn tendon faster, then surgery it is. Otherwise, he must play the waiting game as scar tissue takes over.