Other Sports
Gonzo has successful surgery
By The Source
Aug 3, 2004

Phoenix, AZ (Sports Network) - Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Luis Gonzalez had successful surgery on his right elbow Monday. Gonzalez, who underwent Tommy John surgery, will miss the remainder of the season.

Gonzalez, 36, has played all season with a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow. An MRI exam last October revealed a 50 percent tear, but he didn't want to miss the start of the 2004 campaign.

The injury affected his throwing and he experienced numbness and tingling, while having occasional pain.

"Everything went well today," said head team physician Dr. Michael Lee, who was one of doctors that performed the procedure. "At the time of the surgery, we found that the tear in the ligament had progressed from the last MRI scan and there was no doubt that the surgery was necessary at this time."

Gonzalez is expected to be released from the hospital on Tuesday and begin his physical therapy in three to four weeks. His rehab should take about six months and he is expected to be ready for the start of next season.

Gonzalez finished the season hitting .259 with 17 homers, 48 RBI and 69 runs scored in 105 games for the disappointing Diamondbacks.