We’re still a few weeks away from pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training and it appears we already have our first significant injury of the season. Such comes courtesy of Oakland A’s closer Sean Doolittle who is said to have a “slight” rotator cuff tear.
Per Jan Lee:
Sean Doolittle has a slight rotator cuff tear in left shoulder, as well as considerable inflammation in the area. Received PRP injection.
— Jane Lee (@JaneMLB) January 23, 2015
Many were shocked when the Oakland A’s traded for Tyler Clippard (formerly of the Washington Nationals) just a few weeks ago though Sean Doolittle’s injury was clearly the main reason behind such a move. Clippard, who has closing experience, can step in for Doolittle if he is to miss any time.
As for the closer’s prognosis, that remains to be seen though it’s currently not believed to be a full tear, so Sean Doolittle is expected to pitch this season. He isn’t expected to be ready for the regular season however, an obvious tough blow for the A’s.
Currently those treating Sean Doolittle believe the closer will avoid surgery and can heal properly with rest treatment, which is a positive sign for his eventual (and hopeful) return.
For now it’s like that Clippard will be thrust into the closer role while Doolittle is on the mend. He most likely would return to a setup role once the closer returns from his torn rotator cuff, barring Clippard is lights out as Oakland’s fireman.
