A's Pitcher Undergoes Tommy John
Oakland A's reliever Ángel Felipe underwent Tommy John surgery on Friday morning, per the team. In the press release, the club said that it was a successful surgery with Dr. Keith Meister at TMI Sports Medicine in Arlington, Texas. He will miss the entire 2024 season.
The 26-year-old right-hander made his MLB debut last season with Oakland on July 7 against the Boston Red Sox, just two weeks after he had been designated for assignment by the San Diego Padres. He was with the A's in the bullpen until mid-August when he landed on the IL with a right elbow sprain.
Felipe finished the 2023 campaign with a 4.20 ERA (3.52 FIP) across 14 appearances spanning 15 innings. He struck out an impressive 29.7% of hitters in his time in the big leagues, but he has also had issues with his command throughout his pro career, and those were also apparent with his 20.3% walk rate. He's a ground ball pitcher (53%) with strikeout stuff. If he can figure out the walks, then he could be a dominant relief arm for the A's when he returns to the mound sometime in 2025.
Felipe wasn't expected to make the A's Opening Day roster this season, especially with the additions of veterans Trevor Gott and Scott Alexander to the bullpen mix, not to mention Mason Miller being used as a relief arm instead of the rotation. Still, he was a nice depth option with some upside.
Upon his return, Felipe will have one more option remaining. That will put him in a tough spot depending upon when he gets back on a mound since he will be recovering from surgery, which can take some time, but also fighting for a roster spot.
As of right now, Felipe is still a member of the A's 40-man roster, but the figures to change before long when they place him on the 60-day IL for his recovery.