MRI results confirmed that Phillies relief pitcher Jose Contreras has a complete UCL tear and a flexor pronator tear in his right elbow. Ruben Amaro said the team believes Contreras tore what is known as the Tommy John ligament during the seventh inning of Friday nights win over the Marlins at Citizens Bank Park.
Unfortunately, were pretty confident that he has a couple of very, very serious issues, Amaro said. Were not sure what hes going to do after that.
Kind of unfortunate for him. I feel badly for him. He worked pretty hard to get back to the point where he was being affective. Its a tough piece of news to take.
Contreras pitched in 17 games this season and had a 5.27 ERA. Prior to Fridays game, Contreras didnt allow an earned run in nine of his last 11 appearances. He had a 1.86 ERA, 10 strikeouts and no walks over that span.
When asked whether Contrerass season is over, Amaro said initially, I would have to say that. Amaro declined to speculate about whether this could be a career-threatening injury for the relief pitcher. Contreras will turn 41 before next season. Amaro added that the club will seek a second opinion.
E-mail John Gonzalez at jgonzalez@comcastsportsnet.com