Jayson Werth Injury: Updates on Nationals Star's Shoulder and Recovery
Washington Nationals outfielder Jayson Werth may not be available when the regular season begins after undergoing surgery on his right shoulder.
Continue for updates
Werth Undergoes Successful Surgery
Friday, Jan. 9
The Nationals announced an update on Werth:
Werth to Miss 2-3 Months After Surgery
Thursday, Jan. 8
According to Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports, Werth is having arthroscopic surgery that is expected to take between two to three months of rehab:
Rosenthal also noted that the shoulder being operated on is one that Werth had issues with during the 2014 season:
The Nationals open the 2015 season on April 6 against the Mets. If Werth's recovery takes two months, he could be on track to be in the lineup for that game since it would give him around four weeks of spring training.
However, if Werth's recovery is on the long side, he could start the season on the disabled list to keep getting work in extended spring training. That would be a blow to Washington's lineup, as the 35-year-old led the team with a .394 on-base percentage and tied for second with a .455 slugging percentage.
Fortunately for the Nationals, if Werth does have to miss time, the starting rotation has the depth to make up for the lack of offensive production. Keeping Bryce Harper healthy will also go a long way to adding a different dynamic to this lineup.
Werth has battled injuries throughout his career. Last year was the first time since 2011 that he played in more than 130 games. His advanced age isn't going to make him more durable, so expect the Nationals to proceed with caution.
