Atlanta Braves Sean Rodriguez May Be Lost for Season
When the Atlanta Braves traded for Brandon Phillips, one had to think that Sean Rodriguez was hurt worse than expected. Today, it was learned that he may be lost for the season.
Just a last month, the Atlanta Braves appeared to be set at second base, or at the very worst, at a super utility position. Sean Rodriguez had been inked to a two year, $11 Million contract, and was slated to be the team’s starter at second in the coming year. Even if he fell short of expectations, he was still a valuable piece that could slot around the diamond.
And then, disaster. Rodriguez injured his shoulder when the vehicle he and his family in were hit by a stolen car in a horrific accident. That driver was killed, and Rodriguez suffered a shoulder injury. At first, it was expected that he would be out for a few months. Then, the Braves traded for Brandon Phillips, signalling that the injury may be more severe than previously thought.
Today, it was learned that Rodriguez had surgery on what has proven to be a torn rotator cuff. Not only that, but it is likely that he will miss the entire 2017 season due to the injury.
#Braves utility man Sean Rodriguez had shoulder surgery for torn rotator cuff from car accident last month, likely done for the season.
— David O’Brien (@DOBrienAJC) February 15, 2017
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This is certainly a terrible blow for Rodriguez. He has a career year in 2016, posting a .270/.349/.510 batting line with 18 home runs in 342 plate appearances. Now that he was slated to have a starting job for the first time since 2011, the 32 year old had a chance to exceed his production from last year.
While there is concern about replacing his production and versatility on the diamond, Rodriguez’ health is far more important. He and his family were in a terrible accident, rammed by a stolen vehicle as they were minding their own business. His return to the field, when it happens, is secondary to his family being healthy.
And yet, those concerns on the diamond may not disappear. Phillips has taken his spot in the lineup, and if Ozzie Albies progresses as expected, Rodriguez may simply be back in a utility spot. His chance to start may well have come and gone due to this accident.
Sean Rodriguez is likely done for the year for the Atlanta Braves, his season over before it even began.
