Los Angeles Angels pitcher Jered Weaver is recovering from a spine injury but expects to be ready for the regular season.
Continue for updates.
Weaver Declares Himself Ready to Pitch
Tuesday, March 15
“I’ll be ready to take the ball in the (expletive) opening series,” Weaver said, per Jeff Fletcher of the Orange County Register. Fletcher provided more from Weaver:
It’s just a mild case. We thought maybe it had something to do with what’s going on, but [Dr. Robert Watkins] didn’t think it translated (to pitching) or anything like that. Obviously, he’s an expert on the situation. Just keep grinding.
I wish they would tell me I need surgery or something. As bad as that sounds, an answer would be great. But it’s not the way it’s happening. I have to keep grinding with what I’m doing.
Angels general manager Billy Eppler noted on March 12 that surgery was not an option, per Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times.
Weaver also stated he will pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday, per Fletcher.
Weaver Struggling to Shake Injury Bug
Weaver had a lackluster 2015 campaign that was mired by back issues, and the team placed him on the 15-day disabled list May 30 because of those back problems.
Prior to going 7-12 with a 4.64 ERA last year, Weaver had been one of the best pitchers in baseball. In 2012, he went 20-5 while posting a 2.81 ERA.
If Weaver misses time again this season, it would be a major blow to an Angels team that needs better production on the mound. Garrett Richards was L.A.’s winningest pitcher last year at 15-12, followed by Hector Santiago at 9-9.
Although last year was one of the worst seasons of his career, a healthy Weaver would give the Angels a better chance to compete in the American League West next season.
Stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference.com.
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