Nationals’ reliever Sam Freeman underwent Tommy John Surgery earlier this summer, manager Dave Martinez told reporters (including Jesse Dougherty of the Washington Post). The southpaw has been out since August 12 with a flexor strain.
Freeman went under the knife on August 19, relays Jessica Camerato of MLB.com. Given that timeline, it’s likely he won’t be able to return to game action until 2022. Fortunately, the initial stages of the recovery have gone well, Martinez added.
It’s a devastating blow for the 33-year-old Freeman, who underwent the same procedure as a prospect back in 2010. He has seen big league action every year since 2012 but combined for just seven innings over the past two seasons. Freeman only allowed one run in seven appearances for the Nats this season, although his seven walks against six strikeouts hinted at potential forthcoming regression.
Freeman is eligible for arbitration this offseason, but he’s a slam dunk to be non-tendered. He could look to lock on with another club on a minor-league deal this winter or attempt to rehab on his own and explore a deal when he’s further along in his recovery.
People catching the TJ like Corona
You catch surgery? Tel me how it’s done
Step 1: hurt something
Step 2: requires surgery to fix.
It might save time today to do an article telling us who didn’t have Tommy John surgery.
Up next, Dakota Hudson
Dang I didn’t know Sad Sam was still in the majors…heal up!
I will always remember Sam Freeman made his MLB debut during Johan Santana’s no hitter in 2012 and struck out Daniel Murphy for his 1st major league K. Kind of crazy to think he’s been in the league since 2012 because no offense he’s not exactly great. Hope he’s able to bounce back from this Tommy John successfully
One of THE nicest guys in MLB, get well Sam!
You catch surgery? Tel me how it’s done
Good burn. Post it a third time please.
Lol
He performed fairly well during his stint with the Braves. Wish him the best, and hope to see him at the big league level again!!