"If the Rays are going to get back to the World Series, they'll have to do so without left-handed pitcher J.P. Howell. The workhorse reliever, out since early in spring training, underwent left shoulder surgery Wednesday in Birmingham, Ala, and will be lost for the year. The Rays offered no specifics about the procedure performed by Dr. James Andrews and would not confirm he had a labrum injury. Executive vice president Andrew Friedman said the surgery went "as well as could be expected," and the club is optimistic the 27-year-old will be ready for next season. But Friedman acknowledged the uncertainty faced by any pitcher coming off arm or shoulder surgery. "We're really not going to know a lot until the offseason in terms of an actual timeline," he said. "But the fact we're optimistic he'll be ready to star the season means that some time in January, he starts a throwing program." Howell pitched 156 innings in 2008 and 2009, sixth most in the majors, and led all relievers in wins in that span with 13. In 2009 he set career highs in appearances (69), wins (seven) and saves (17), but wore down late in the season after taking on the closer's role and was shut down for the last 10 games of the season. Friedman said he spoke to Howell before the surgery and that Howell was frustrated. "It was an emotional moment for him going through this for the first time, and he's in great hands," he said. "He's a great worker, a great competitor. I certainly would never bet against him." The loss doesn't seem as critical as it might have a month ago. With Rays starters going at least six innings in 32 of the first 39 games, the bullpen has pitched to a 1.63 ERA in the last 30 games." http://www2.tbo.com/content/2010/may/19/192125/rays-howell-officially-out-year/sports-rays/
