A wave of apprehension swept through the Los Angeles Angels’ organization when it was revealed earlier this month that the talented left-handed pitcher, Jose Quijada, would have to undergo the renowned Tommy John surgery. This followed a diagnosis of significant ligament damage in his elbow, casting a pall over the team’s aspirations for the 2023 season. Quijada had been experiencing discomfort and sought several physicians’ expertise before confirming the diagnosis and opting for surgery, which took place successfully on May 21.
Unfortunately, the necessity of this surgery meant that Quijada’s contribution to the 2023 season was prematurely curtailed. This was a significant blow to the Angels, given that Quijada had delivered a sterling performance at the 2023 World Baseball Classic, representing Venezuela. His performance had raised high hopes for his contribution to the Angels’ season. However, the ten games he had played with the team resulted in a 6.00 ERA, and he had managed to strike out only eight batters.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Angels’ Manager, Phil Nevin, holds onto optimism regarding Quijada’s eventual return. He envisions the left-hander making a successful recovery and reclaiming his spot on the team in the following season. Quijada’s temporary exit does, however, necessitate some strategic adjustments within the Angels’ bullpen, considering Quijada had emerged as a reliable left-handed option.
Despite this setback, the Angels’ Manager reiterates his confidence in Quijada’s recovery, projecting that he will bounce back in the subsequent season and lend much-needed strength to the bullpen. The loss of Quijada should not impact those who bet on MLB, as the Angels remain longshots to win the World Series.
Tommy John Surgery
Tommy John surgery is named after the legendary pitcher who first underwent the procedure in 1974 and has become a routine yet vital procedure for baseball players experiencing severe elbow injuries. This surgery involves replacing the damaged ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow with a tendon taken from elsewhere in the body. It carries a high success rate, often allowing players to resume their baseball careers.
However, the road to recovery post-surgery is long and grueling, typically spanning 12-18 months and sometimes even longer. It demands the player’s unwavering commitment and intensive effort throughout the rehabilitation phase to achieve the desired outcomes.
The Impact on the Angels
Quijada’s enforced absence from the team significantly compounds the challenges already facing the Angels’ bullpen, which has grappled with inconsistency throughout the season. The team will now have to lean more heavily on other left-handed options, such as Tony Watson and Alex Claudio, to step up and bridge the gap left by Quijada.
This latest injury to Quijada adds to the growing list of woes that the Angels have had to contend with this season. Key players, including Shohei Ohtani, Anthony Rendon, and Mike Trout, have all been sidelined due to various injuries, disrupting the team’s stability on the field. To stand a chance in the ultra-competitive American League West, the Angels must rally, overcome these adversities, and maintain their fighting spirit.
