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Though the 2020 season has been successful thus far for the Atlanta Braves, they certainly have experienced their fair share of unexpected and unfortunate news. The most unfortunate occurrence of all was the Achilles injury that ended Mike Soroka’s season earlier this week. Without a doubt, the images and immediate impact were devastating for many of Soroka’s teammates and fans to endure. However, this afternoon brought news of a great first step on Soroka’s road to recovery.
RHP Mike Soroka underwent successful surgery to repair his right Achilles tendon yesterday in Green Bay, WI. Dr. Robert Anderson performed the procedure.
— Atlanta Braves (@Braves) August 8, 2020
Though an Achilles tear is rightfully considered a highly serious injury, it typically is one that can be overcome with successful surgery and rehab. Though Soroka’s season is clearly done, there are some reliable medical minds who have weighed in on his situation and feel that he should make a full recovery.
Dr. James Andrew on @MLBNetworkRadio discussing Mike Soroka's Achilles tear and recovery time. #Braves
— Cory McCartney (@coryjmccartney) August 5, 2020
"You can expect a full recovery, but just takes 6, 7, 8 months before they can really come back at a high level."
The other encouraging news from perhaps the most respected medical name in all of sports, Dr. James Andrews, in regards to Soroka is that he hopefully will be ready near the beginning of the 2021 season. Though it is far too early to have a solid idea of when Soroka might be ready to go, the successful surgery and encouraging outlook provide a best case scenario considering how bad things looked just a few days ago.
Through three starts this season, Soroka was 0-1 with a 3.95 ERA and 3.58 FIP over 13 2⁄3 innings. Of course, those numbers are a bit skewed after his struggles against the Mets when he suffered the injury. In his other two starts. Soroka was as effective as ever. Though the Braves and their fans will have to wait an extended amount of time to see Soroka amaze on a mound again, there is a good chance he is back and better than ever in 2021.