the article linked in the first post of this thread...(it's so annoying to have to go back and forth to the linked article and this thread when making a post related to the article)...
Same old story for Liriano
MRI shows mild tear of ulnar collateral ligament in lefthander's elbow
Joe Christensen, Star Tribune Last update: September 14, 2006 – 12:46 PM
Francisco Liriano
Jerry Holt , Star Tribune
CLEVELAND - Those who feared the worst with Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano's arm injury could breathe a little easier Thursday.
Early indications from two sources were that Liriano's magnetic resonance imaging exam, taken Wednesday, showed no new structural damage to his left elbow.
Twins General Manager Terry Ryan could not be reached for comment, but sources said Liriano's MRI results were very similar to the results from early August, which showed a mild tear of his ulnar collateral ligament.
At the time, the Twins said that was an old injury for Liriano. After resting the elbow and strengthening his shoulder, Liriano began a throwing program that led to Wednesday's return, which he cut short in the third inning against Oakland.
After being examined by the Twins' medical staff Wednesday, Liriano, 22, could be headed for a second opinion.
Speculation mounted Wednesday that Liriano could need the ligament reconstructive procedure commonly known as "Tommy John surgery."
The recommended rehabilitation time from Tommy John surgery is 12-18 months.
The Twins had already planned to shut down Liriano for the rest of the season, but if the early reports hold true, he would hold a much better chance of being at full strength for the start of spring training. More information is expected in coming hours, as the Twins begin a four-game series with the Cleveland Indians tonight.
...what strikes me about this article is this...
"sources said Liriano's MRI results were very similar to the results from early August, which showed a mild tear of his ulnar collateral ligament.
At the time, the Twins said that was an old injury for Liriano."
...now I thought I heard that his MRI in August showed no damage? A mild tear in the ulnar collateral ligament is a Tommy John surgery just waiting to happen. Like the old Fram oil filter commercial, you can pay me now, or you can pay me later!