Nationals southpaw Jonny Venters has undergone shoulder surgery, according to Jesse Dougherty of the Washington Post (via Twitter). The oft-injured hurler had a procedure to repair a torn capsule three weeks ago.
This is the latest major surgery for a player that has had more than his fair share of them already. Most notably, Venters has undergone three Tommy John procedures — making his presence on the big-league mound rather astounding.
Unfortunately, this’ll be another big rehab effort for the 34-year-old. He’ll need four months of rest and rehab before he’s even able to resume throwing. Dougherty says that Venters isn’t yet sure whether he’ll attempt yet another comeback.
After an exceptional early-career run with the Braves, Venters went five full seasons between MLB appearances. He bounced back with the Rays before coming home to Atlanta last year via trade, ultimately throwing 34 1/3 innings of 3.67 ERA ball with a monster 69.1% groundball rate for the season. Venters was cut loose after struggling early this year, but had just found a new opportunity in D.C. before the shoulder problems intervened.
I’m betting he’ll try to come back from this. This guy doesn’t now quitting.
He’s a beast for even getting this far
he might, though. i remember reading that he decided that if it went out again, that would be it in terms of a comeback (since he had spent so many years trying, and as such with his family having to move around a lot, just sounded like he’d be content to stay home and be a dad).
if it’s the end for him, i wish him all the best (and his is one of the best comeback stories ever)
man this poor guy cant catch a break.
Truly sad wishing him the very best
Poor guy, godspeed Jonny wishing you a speedy recovery
Jonny looked great in his handful of appearances with the Nats before going on the IL. I really hope he is able to pitch again. He is extremely talented as a LHP who produces GB outs. His stuff was looking really good.