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On the day they reportedly acquired Cubs ace Ryan Dempster, the Texas Rangers will lose another pitcher to injuries. Neftali Feliz is set for Tommy John surgery, ending his 2012 season after the former Rookie Of The Year returned to the rotation after playing as a closer in 2010-'11.
Feliz was 3-1 with a 3.16 ERA in seven games this year before injuring his elbow during a rehab assignment for a strained UCL in the joint. Texas was already without Colby Lewis, who was lost with a torn flexor tendon. With Feliz lost for a full calendar year at least, Lone Star Ball calls the news "devastating" for the Rangers' 2012 postseason depth and the 2013 season:
Feliz was handed a rotation spot this spring, and showed some promise as a starter before going on the disabled list in May. While there was some concerns and questions about whether he'd be back in the rotation this year, the belief was that, at least, he might be able to contribute out of the bullpen in a fireman role, and be a weapon come playoff time.
For more on Neftali Feliz and the Texas Rangers, be sure to check out Lone Star Ball and SB Nation Dallas. For all your MLB news, be sure to head on over to Baseball Nation.
