New York Yankees C Jorge Posada considering season-ending surgery

July 21, 2008 @ 12:40:39

By Fraser Lovat
Edited by Tim Heaney

ESPNews reports New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day disabled list and is considering undergoing season-ending surgery on his injured right shoulder.

The Yankees activated outfielder Johnny Damon (shoulder) from the 15-day DL to take Posada's roster spot.

Posada has had lingering shoulder issues since spring training and spent more than a month on the DL before being activated June 3. He stated there has been pain in his shoulder all season long and he has no power in his throws; the Yankees were slow to put him behind the plate upon his return, playing him mainly at designated hitter or first base to ease his transition.

He is scheduled to see Dr. David Altchek Tuesday, July 22, to receive an MRI on his shoulder and discuss his plans. Posada was planning on starting a rehabilitation program Monday, July 21, before talking with Altchek about his options. The 36-year-old admitted he had more damage in his shoulder than just his labrum. Posada admitted he needs to undergo surgery at some point, and he could be out for part of next season if he delays the decision.

That's not good news for him or the team because Posada signed a four-year, $52.4 million contract in the offseason. Posada earned the contract by having a career year in 2007 while hitting .338 with 20 home runs and 90 RBIs.

He is hitting just .268 with only three home runs and 22 RBIs in 51 games this season.

Manager Joe Girardi said if Posada is eventually able to hit but cannot catch, the team may activate him at some point this season. Girardi stated that if he is an available bat then the team may keep him on the active roster.

Posada would expect to miss four to six months following surgery at any point and doesn't want to have the injury affect him or the team in multiple seasons.

Catcher Jose Molina, Posada's backup, has appeared in 61 games this season. Molina is hitting .215 with 11 RBIs and will likely see the majority of time behind the plate. Molina does not have much fantasy value except in American League-only formats.

If you own Posada, place him in a DL spot or stash him on your roster and take a wait-and-see approach.

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Fraser Lovat
Fraser is a Hot off the Wire Analyst with KFFL and has been with the company since 2007.

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