Fernando Rodriguez needs Tommy John Surgery

Former Astro Fernando Rodriguez could be heading for ligament replacement surgery. The right-hander abruptly left Monday’s Spring Training game against the Padres in Peoria. After throwing his seventh pitch of the game, Rodriguez grimaced and walked off the mound. It didn’t look good. F-Rod has since been diagnosed with a torn UCL and will seek a second opinion before going under the knife.

When the Astros sent Fernando Rodriguez to Oakland, along with Jed Lowrie last month, I was shocked that the A’s were interested. Why Billy Beane would want a pitcher coming off a season in which he posted a 5.37 ERA and a 1.45 WHIP remains a mystery. The fact that F-Rod was included in the deal helped soften the blow for Astros fans who were hoping Lowrie would remain with the team.

Now Rodriguez is hurt and it’s probably only a matter of time until Lowrie finds his way to the disabled list as well. If Chris Carter, Brad Peacock, and/or Max Stassi can amount to anything this trade could prove to be another feather in the cap of Jeff Luhnow.

Peacock will get the start on the mound tomorrow when the Astros face the Pirates. The 25-year old righty is still in the mix for a spot in the Astros starting rotation. The game will be broadcast live on MLB Network at Noon Central Time.

Fernando Rodriguez (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)