Feb 19, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Rafael Furcal (15) goes through fielding drills during spring training workouts at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports
By Katie Felts
(KSDK Sports) -- The Cardinals announced today shortstop Rafael Furcal will undergo Tommy John surgery to the elbow of his throwing arm. Dr. James Andrews will perform the surgery.
The news isn't a surprise after Furcal experienced problems during spring training. The elbow caused Furcal issues last season which led to Pete Kozma receiving an opportunity to take over the position.
With Furcal out Ronny Cedeno and Kozma will compete for the starting role at shortstop. Kozma appeared in 26 games during the regular season where he hit .333 with 14 RBI's and two homeruns however, there were lapses in his defense.
The Cardinals signed Cedeno this offseason to give themselves depth off the bench in the event Furcal could not play. Last season with the Mets Cedeno played in 78 games and finished with a .259 average, driving in 22 RBI's along with 4 homeruns.
In my opinion, it is unlikely the Cardinals will rush to fill the loss of Furcal with another signing. Expect the team to take a wait and see approach with Cedeno and Kozma.
Either or both could fill the absence of Furcal and if there is a need closer to the trade deadline then the team might make a move.