For Scott Elbert, it's once again back to the old phrase of "one step forward, two steps back."
Elbert's fragile left elbow just endured it's second arthroscopic operation since September 19 on Wednesday. He'll begin a throwing program in six weeks, with Spring Training starting up in three.
Being out of action is no surprise for him, as he battled arm problem all through 2012. He did manage to pitch in 32 2/3 innings covering 43 games, good for a 2.20 ERA. In 2011, he gathered a 2.43 ERA in 33 1/3 innings.
Let's not forget about his personal issues that pretty much wiped away his entire 2010 season.
It's easy to see why the Dodgers like him with numbers in the mid-2's. On the other hand, it wouldn't be a surprise to eventually see them part ways with him, as staying on the field has proven to be a difficult task. Right now, missing the season appears to be speculation, but when you're talking elbow injuries, you're talking big chunks of time missed.
It's a good thing J.P. Howell was signed from Tampa Bay earlier this month, as he's clearly the #1 lefty in the bullpen. Elbert's loss could also be Paco Rodriguez's gain, as his 1.35 ERA in a short amount of time last season could easily earn him a trip back to LA.
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