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Season Over?

Just when things were getting good, the Dodgers have had a devastating week. Aside from being swept by the lowly Kansas City Royals, Eric Gagne has been placed on the DL and might have a career threatening injury. Depending on the extent of the tear in Gagne's elbow, which won't be known for at least another week, Gagne might need to have Tommy John surgery for the second time in his career. We're hoping he can just come back in 8 weeks at near-Gagne strength, but his second-degree elbow strain must absolutely be treated with extreme care.
If it's Tommy John surgery, then we have no idea what to expect. There isn't much of a track record for pitchers who have had two Tommy John surgeries. Just how much in danger is Gagne's career? We can't say. But Eric Gagne has been the team's undisputed superstar for the past three years or so. He's virtually the only recognizable player on the team to semi-casual fans. He brings Dodger Stadium to its feet every time he walks on the mound. The Dodgers cannot afford to lose him.
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