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Los Angeles Dodgers closer Eric Gagne, limited to 16 appearances since the beginning of last season because of elbow problems, might need back surgery.

Thu, 06 Jul 2006 21:56:00 EST

Post your comments about this story here.

[MJHMarc]

Could these long-term injuries be ending the career of one of baseball's top closers?

This similiar scenario happened to a former Dodger before your time, Sandy Koufax.

[Lefty Noob]

I thought the elbow injury was enough to force Gagne out; back surgery would be the final nail in his MLB coffin.

[ThePundit]

It happened to Don Mattingly too which is why he went from the best player in the game to a punch and judy hitter over night. I feel bad for Gagne. He was a great reliever.

[MJHMarc]

Eric Gagne had a short career, too. Here is a tribute with a year-to-year rundown.

Kicking it off in '99 as a promising starter with a stunning 2.10 ERA.

In 2000, he stumbled as a starter finishing up with a 4-6 record.

2001 wasn't any better, but he struck out 130 solid batters.

By 2002, he had switched to a closer making up with 52 spectacular saves.

Gagne had the best year of his career in 2003 when he cracked 55 saves and an ERA of 1.20

His last big season as a closer was in 2004 when he followed up with 45 saves.

In 2005 and 2006 he suffered numerous injuries which will probably end his memorable career.