Backup backstop is on crutches for a while.
Tokyo’s Japanese-language website reported that catcher Ryouhei Kawamoto had successful surgery to repair ligament damage in his right ankle on the 17th of this month.
It is projected that he will require up to two months to heal completely.
Rookie pitcher, Kentaro Kyuko, also had surgery recently. On Monday November 21st, Kyuko had surgery on his throwing hand (left) to alleviate blood flow issues that dogged him during the end of the season.
He is expected to be sidelined for at least four months.
Ready by spring training 2012?
As we reported a couple of months ago, Tateyama was complaining of a similar problem at the end of the season, and it was mentioned before the playoffs began that he might require surgery to correct the problem.
Having both Tateyama and Kyuko out for the beginning of next season would be a major headache for the Swallows coaching staff.
About Christopher Pellegrini
