The hits keep coming for Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Alex Cobb, who has missed extended time in each of the past two seasons with a multitude of injuries.
Cobb, 27, has yet to pitch this season due to due to forearm tendinitis. And while there wasn’t much hope that Cobb would return anytime soon, the latest information directly from the Rays is nothing less than a major setback for the talented starter.
UPDATE: #Rays RHP Alex Cobb will undergo Tommy John surgery, which will be performed by Dr. James Andrews.
— Tampa Bay Rays (@RaysBaseball) May 8, 2015
As you already know, Tommy John Surgery requires months and months of rehab, forcing a player from the game for a minimum of a year. Now that Cobb is going to have to undergo said surgery, his timetable for return can’t be any sooner 2016.
It’s a major blow to a Rays staff that was relying on Cobb’s electric arm moving forward this season.
Since making his Major League debut in 2011, Cobb has been exceptional when he’s actually taken to the bump. He boasts a 35-23 record with a 3.21 ERA in 81 games (all starts). He’s also tallied a 1.19 WHIP and 2.78 strikeout-to-walk ratio in his career.
Here’s to hoping Cobb, much like other youngsters who have gone through this procedure, comes back stronger than ever.
Photo: USA Today Sports