The Miami Marlins announced on Tuesday that relief pitcher Carter Capps is scheduled to undergo Tommy John surgery, which will be performed by Dr. James Andrews.
The right-hander, who was expected to take over the closer role for the Marlins heading into the 2016 season, visited Dr. Andrews last week after undergoing an MRI. He was experiencing elbow soreness shortly after reporting to spring training and it was assumed, at the very least, that even a rehab option would require a long recovery time.
In the end, the 25-year-old was dealing with a UCL tear and surgery was needed. Joe Frisaro of MLB.com is reporting that Capps is expected to be back in 10-12 months and the hope is that he's ready for Opening Day 2017. The right-hander was scheduled to make $988,000 in 2016.
Capps appeared in 30 games last season and finished 1-0 with a 1.16 ERA, 0.81 WHIP and 58 strikeouts in 31 innings of work. He was expected to succeed A.J. Ramos as the Marlins' closer after his best season since making his MLB debut in 2012. It was a career year for the right-hander, who is known for his funky delivery in which he leaps toward home plate as he's throwing.
Ever since Capps went to visit Dr. Andrews, the Marlins have been reportedly exploring the trade market for relievers, but have yet to make any significant headway.
While this is a big loss for Miami, the Fish still have Ramos, 29, who also had a career year in 2015. The right-hander went 2-4 with a 2.30 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 87 strikeouts and 32 saves in 71 games (70-1/3 innings) and the Marlins expect him to pick up right where he left off.
Additionally, the team's starting rotation depth will also help out the bullpen, as Edwin Jackson, David Phelps, Adam Conley and others could be relegated to a relief role depending on who earns a spot as a starter.
