The offseason has begun, and so will repairs of various ailments the Phillies players have. Three players are going to go under the knife this offseason, Todd Zolecki of MLB.com reports. Zolecki also updates us on pitcher Cliff Lee, who ended 2014 on the disabled list.
Carlos Ruiz
Ruiz had been bothered by a sore shoulder, which led to increased playing time for Wil Nieves and a start for Cameron Rupp down the stretch. Ruiz had "minor arthroscopic surgery" on his left shoulder on Monday by the team doctor. Ruiz should be ready for Spring Training.
Ben Revere
Revere had surgery to remove the screws in his ankle at the Rothman Institute on Tuesday. The result of this surgery is that Revere will have to be in a boot for two weeks. We remember Revere's grimaces as he swung this past season. Revere should also be all healed up and ready for Spring Training.
A.J. Burnett
Burnett is finally getting the hernia surgery that he had remarked he wished he would have gotten early in the season. Pitching with the hernia all season, Burnett put together one of his worst seasons in the major leagues, leading the league in losses with 18. Burnett's surgery could help determine whether or not he chooses to pitch for the Phillies next season for the $12.75 million option that vested in his contract.
Cliff Lee
Lee battled strains in his pitching elbow this season, making only 13 starts, the fewest in his career since becoming a full-time starter in 2004. Lee had an MRI on Friday that showed his flexor tendon healing, a good sign for the future. With rest the only cure for this strain, the team is optimistic that Lee would be ready for Spring Training.
