Arthroscopic surgery is not as invasive as more traditional, open-shoulder operations, so patients often can go home the same day. After an operation, the patient is given some recovery time, after which physical therapy begins, progressively working to return strength and movement to the shoulder. Sirotka has received some treatment for his pain, and doctors are still trying to assess the extent of his injury. His orthopaedist said he needs physical therapy and pitching training, and he may still be a long-term candidate for surgery depending on the success he has with preliminary treatment. Quick exits out of the inning means throwing fewer pitches and putting less strain on the throwing arm.
Fresh relievers can substitute for the starters who show signs of strain.
Modified deliveries can put the least amount of strain on the arm and shoulder. But the pros need to be able to throw heat and fight off batters when they fall behind in the count. Doctors are still evaluating his shoulder. They know it is a rotator cuff injury that involves the labrum. But it still is not known how he will respond to physical therapy and whether he needs surgery.