Atlanta Braves report: Brandon Beachy has successful Tommy John surgery - MLB Update
As per an official tweet from the Atlanta Braves, Tommy John surgery for starter Brandon Beachy went well. Treatment was intended to cure ulnar collateral ligament in the right elbow. Surgeon Dr. James Andrews carried out the surgery. According to initial
assessments, procedure went through smoothly and problem was not any different to what was reported in the first place.
By the time decision about surgery was taken by the club, it was confirmed that Beachy will not come back in the season.
He was disheartened because he was having an ideal time as a starter. Leading the Major League ERA in the season and throwing shut-out game for Braves, he was all set to experience the best season of his life.
Extent of his penchant for playing can be gauged from the fact that when problem with elbow came to limelight during a game, he tried to believe and let others think that he is having simple bone spurs, while negating any chance of surgery.
Later when it emerged that he suffers a partial ligament on elbow, he was equally hopeful that it will heal automatically and that he will not go through the surgery.
Resting his confidence on number of examples of the players who had successfully avoided surgery while struggling with partial ligament, he was optimistic about not undergoing an operation.
Successful completion of Tommy John surgery, as has officially been declared now, is a great sign.
For long-term sustainability as a pitcher, at-least Beachy will have a chance to prepare for the next season.
Surgery is going to render him stronger and thus there is every reason to believe that once he returns, he will be more formidable for the batters.
Similarly, his fastball which is not as fast as one expects from an ace, can be improved during the time-period he has got now. Mix up of fastball with off-speed pitches will bridge one of the areas he is vulnerable.
The Braves will look to see that Beachy is resting and coming back to the park only when he feels comfortable. Only thing they will like to ascertain that once Beachy returns, he will have all the issues resolved.
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