Glavines sore elbow could end career
By john • Aug 15th, 2008 • Category: atlanta braves, major leagues, tom glavine, top story
Tom Glavine went back to the disabled list on Friday, just a day after making his first start since June 10. Glavine was pounded to the tune of seven runs, seven hits while walking four in the Braves 11-7 loss to the Chicago Cubs.
Today it appears his season has ended and while there has been no reports on how this will effect his availability for 2009, one has to wonder if Glavine will even be throwing next season.
With 305 career victories under his belt the 42-year-old left hander had hinted that he would retire following last season if he didn’t return to Atlanta. A torn flexor tendon in his left elbow caused him to sit out two months of this season. Glavine complained of discomfort in his elbow during Thursday nights start.
Glavine has made only three trips to the disabled list in his 22-year career — all this season. He spent two weeks on the disabled list in April with a hamstring injury.
It’s something I hate to admit but fear to say. Aging pitchers with arm troubles don’t stay around very long. Even those with the career success that Glavine has experienced.
If “Tommy” never takes to the hill again this would probably rank as the most depressing baseball retirement of my lifetime.
Unlike many of the starts who have retired in the last few years Glavine is one I can say I’ve watched his whole career. I remember when Glavine was just a youngster on the Braves. A left hander trying to find his grove. I remember my father saying “Grapevine. That kid is going to be good” It’s one of the few times my father has been so right about baseball.
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