Jose Contreras Undergoes Season Ending Surgery

Jose Contreras underwent season ending surgery yesterday.  According to Matt Gelb of the Philadelphia Inquirer, Contreras had his elbow cleaned out and flexor tendon repaired during the procedure.

Contreras hit the disabled list in the middle of June with a strained right forearm, but it was later discovered that the 39 year old was dealing with a more serious arm problem.

The Phillies determined last week that Contreras would undergo the season ending procedure.  Philadelphia hopes the surgery will alleviate the elbow pain Contreras has been experiencing.

Contreras began the year as the Phillies closer, replacing the injured Brad Lidge.  After successfully completing his first 5 save opportunities, Contreras hit the DL.  Over the 8 games he pitched in April, Contreras held opponents scoreless while only surrendering 4 hits in his 8 innings of work.

The right-hander was able to rejoin the Phillies at the end of May but the return was short-lived.  After making only 9 appearances, Contreras returned to the disabled list in June.

While Philadelphia originally expected Contreras to be ready to go next spring, the club doesn’t sound as sure following surgery.  Phillies GM Ruben Amaro told Gelb that he wasn’t sure if Contreras would be back by the time next season began.

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