Detroit, MI – Detroit Tigers reliever Al Alburquerque Star break.
Alburquerque had a screw inserted into the elbow to stabilize a non-displaced stress fracture. The procedure was performed Thursday by noted sports surgeon Dr. James Andrews.
The Tigers said Alburquerque won't begin a throwing program until the latter part of spring training.
Alburquerque was dominant during the 2011 regular season for the Tigers, posting a record of 6-1 with a 1.87 earned run average and 67 strikeouts in 43 1/3 innings. He led all American League relievers with a .142 batting average against.
However, he struggled in four games during the playoffs. The right-hander was tagged for three runs on two hits and three walks in just two innings.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.