Harden Has Tear In Shoulder

[love_that_reefer]

The Chicago Sun Times reports that Rich Harden has a small tear in his shoulder joint, calling it "just severe enough that some players might seek surgery but slight enough to be in a range often treated effectively with a strengthening program."
The report comes after pitching coach Larry Rothschild raised concerns about Harden's status by saying Saturday during a fan gathering that "he's not close to throwing off a mound yet" and "there's some issues there, no question.'' Harden did his best to quiet any concerns, saying: 'I'm on a set program, and I'm not behind at all. 'I'm right on schedule and feeling great. I'll be ready for the start of the season for sure. There's no doubt in my mind. Nobody has any doubts whether I'll be ready or not. I will.''

There have always been concerns about Harden's health but now they have an actual diagnosis and it doesn't look good. This could really hurt the chances of the Cubs winning a title this year.

[NYgiantsfan5689]

This is a huge blow for the Cubs. At least he's on schedule. When did this happen? And why has it been so long before it was reported? Did it happen in winter ball or something?

[love_that_reefer]

It happened last season but the Cubs just called it "rotator tendinitis". The Cubs will need Harden come October but that looks more and more in doubt.

[NYgiantsfan5689]

I think he'll be there by October, it's the games in the beginning he's going to be missed

[ljshorty89]

Harden has always had injury troubles, the question remains whether if he can ever get past the injuries. Hopefully (for the Cubs) he can, but if he isn't, it'll help every other team in the NL.

[browntown653]

Shocking!

[NYgiantsfan5689]

looks like another year Brown goes cat-free

[catman]

What a surprise. Rich Harden has some of the best stuff in the bigs right now, but can not seem to stay away from the injury bug. This is too bad.