When you've got arm problems, and you're scheduled to meet with Dr.
James Andrews, chances are there's surgery in your future.
Chad Cordero, whose fastball velocity
dropped to the 70's recently met with Andrews with the world expecting the worst. Instead, Cordero becomes one of the few people to leave Andrews' office
without a surgery date.
Renowned orthopedist James Andrews diagnosed Cordero with rotator cuff tendinitis and weakness. Cordero will not need surgery or have to go on the disabled list. Instead, he will continue pitching for the Nationals and strengthening his shoulder by following a new exercise plan devised by one of Andrews' assistants.
Washington general manager Jim Bowden hopes the new plan helps Cordero return his velocity to around 91 mph, as opposed to the 87 mph and below Cordero has been throwing this season.
"He goes out there and pitches, and, whether he's throwing 78-80 or 85-87, he's getting them out," Bowden said. "That part is encouraging. Now that he has a specific new program to build the strength up, hopefully the velocity will come sooner rather than later."
Translated: "We're 6-16. Our relievers are in the bottom third of the league in ERA. Wayne Krivsky got fired and his Reds were better than 6-16. So please, Chad, do your exercises and get well soon."
