
May 17, 2011A'S NEWSA'S VIDEO
Paul GutierrezCSNCalifornia.com
Delayed a day by a canceled flight, Dallas Braden's surgery to repair a torn capsule in his left (throwing) shoulder was deemed "successful" by the A's on Tuesday, though it is expected to end the left-hander's season after three starts.
The surgery was performed in New York City by Mets medical director Dr. David Altchek, who performed a similar procedure on Mets lefty Johan Santana last year.
Braden, 27, was initially diagnosed with inflammation with no structural damage in the shoulder after going on the disabled list was a strain on April 18 (retroactive to April 17). But he sought second and third opinions, from Dr. James Andrews in Pensacola, Fla., and Altcheck, respectively, and decided upon the surgery. The procedure was supposed to take place Monday but the A's said his American Airlines flight on Sunday was cancelled, forcing the postponement.
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Early Tuesday morning, Braden, author of the 19th Perfect Game in major league history last Mother's Day, took to Twitter to give updates on his going under the knife.
"Not sure what's worse," Braden Tweeted, "bad acid trip or the dreams one has while coming down off anesthesia.where can I get"anesthesia"? I'm sheening for it"
Braden was 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA in three starts this season with 15 strikeouts and five walks. The Pride of Stockton last pitched on April 16 at home against Detroit and left the game after five scoreless innings with tightness in the shoulder. Afterwards, he was unusually glum, as if he knew something was truly wrong with his shoulder.
Is there a salvation army store for left shoulders? Braden Tweeted on April 18. how can i pass out for the next 15 days and wake up feeling normal? fetal positon,crying."