Liriano Thinks Rehab is for Quitters

Twins pitcher Francisco Liriano had been in Fort Myers, Florida at the team's spring training facilities trying to rehab his elbow so he could pitch in winter ball. Those plans have been halted as Liriano is still feeling pain in his elbow, and is now pondering surgery.

"Francisco continued to experience pain while taking part in a throwing session, and at this point, he felt it was necessary to re-evaluate his situation. After conferring with the Twins and the different medical personnel that have evaluated him, he will determine whether or not he wants to have surgery in the next week or so."

-Liriano's agent Gene Mato

Liriano was easily the front runner to win AL Rookie of the Year if not its Cy Young winner before the elbow injury. He was 12-3 with a 2.16 ERA last season.

Liriano placement in the Twins' starting rotation directly coincided with the teams turnaround and march to the division championship. It wasn't until August 7th against Detroit that Liriano first felt any pain in his elbow. He was rested for a few weeks before returning on September 13th against Oakland. He pitched two perfect innings before the problem resurfaced, and was shut down for the season.

The diagnosis was a mild strain of the ulnar collateral ligament. The doctors hoped it would clear up with time off.

They were wrong.

Multiple MRI's have shown no structural damage but the pain still persists for Liriano. Now Liriano and the Twins face the prospect of having to undergo Tommy John surgery, which would mean Liriano wouldn't be pitching for the Twins next season.

I'm hoping that they figure something out, and this kid gets back on the mound next season. Sure, the White Sox have a better chance of beating the Twins without Liriano, but he's so damn good it's a joy to watch him pitch.