Based on the description, this sounds like worse news than has been reported so far. Drilling small holes so that the cartilage will grow is, I think, what is called microfracture surgery. Several athletes have not come back from that at all. One guy who comes to mind is Amare Stoudamire of the Phoenix Suns who finally came back this year, but his knee was not right for at least two years. Please correct me if I am getting the surgeries mixed up, but I suspect that the great Morgan-Pearce debate may nowl be resolved on the field, as they could be 2/3 of our starting outfield next year.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microfracture_surgery

“There have been many notable professional athletes who have undergone the procedure. Partially because of the high level of stress placed on the knees by these athletes, the surgery is not a panacea and results have been mixed.”

… the reason being the new cartilage is not as good.

I never knew what a bright guy Jody Gerut was:

http://www3.signonsandiego.com/news/2008/jul/05/q-jody-gerut/?padres

Seems one whole helluva a lot smarter than Dave Littlefield, which puts Gerut’s time and troubles in the Pirate org in a whole different context to me.

got a good start on his investment fund thanks to the Pirates. They paid him good money for two years … for nothing. Smart fellow.