Brandon Lyon Could Be Out For Year

Added on Jun 16, 2011 by Scott in

MLB

Astros reliever Brandon Lyon was supposed to be the full-time closer in 2011. Unfortunately, things haven’t gone according to plan since the season began. Lyon is heading to the disabled list for the second time in two months with tendinitis in his biceps. He is scheduled to visit a specialist on Friday to determine if surgery is required. If he goes under the knife, his season will likely be over.

Lyon has been dealing with shoulder soreness since rejoining the bullpen on June 10th.

“There’s definitely some issues in my shoulder right now and [surgery is] definitely an option,” Lyon said. “I just want to get a grasp on it and talk to some other people and get some options on it.”

In 15 appearances, Lyon is 3-3 with four saves and a bloated ERA of 11.48. He’s also blown four saves, and in three outings since returning from the DL he’s allowed eight runs in two innings.

The 31-year-old has battled injuries and consistency for much of his career. He’s been with five teams in ten major league seasons and missed all of 2004 and a portion of 2005. His claim to fame came as a member of the Red Sox in November 2003 when he was part of the trade that sent Curt Schilling to Boston.

For all his problems this season, Lyon is one of two pitchers to have recorded a save. Mark Melancon, who took over the permanent closer’s role when Lyon went down, leads the team with six. Their combined ten saves is the fewest in both leagues.

Needless to say, Houston is having a year to forget. At 25-45, they hold the worst record in baseball, have allowed the most runs (355) and won only 13 games at home. Tomorrow they embark on a week-long road trip to face the Dodgers and Rangers.

Source: CBSSports.com