Monday, August 14, 2006

Close the book on Mercker

After 16 big-league seasons, Kent Mercker's career has likely ended.

The Reds left-hander suffered a complete tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow on Friday in Philadelphia. The severity of the injury was revealed this morning in a MRI which also showed an 80% tear in the flexor tendon.

Mercker, who will undergo reconstructive surgery on Thursday, went 1-1 this season with a 4.13 ERA and one save in 37 appearances. Prior to the injury, Mercker had tossed 7 1/3 consecutive shutout innings.

His career record stands at 73-67 with a 4.16 ERA, 25 saves and 911 strikeouts. After beginning his career with the Braves, Mercker went on to pitch for eight more teams including three seperate stints with the Reds.

Knowing Merck, he'll make the most of his retirement.

1 comment:

Clint said...

Its ashame that Kent couldn't stay healthy after he had been pitching well as of late. But overall he has had a solid career and I hope he enjoys his retirement.