Dwight Gooden expects to be back in top form next season, even though his rotator-cuff injury is the one that often puts a pitcher`s career in jeopardy. Gooden spoke to the media Monday, two days after Dr. James Parkes repaired torn cartilage and a partially torn rotator cuff in the right-hander`s shoulder.
The Mets` front office and Gooden were stunned when Parkes told them of the rotator-cuff problem, a potentially disabling injury.
”I`m just happy and satisfied no further surgery will take place,”
Gooden said. ”I just have to start exercising, keep the faith and work hard.”
He can begin soft-tossing in 8 to 12 weeks and will continue an exercise rehabilitation program throughout the winter. Parkes said Gooden should be ready for the start of spring training in mid-February.
Mets shortstop Kevin Elster, who had a torn labrum in his right shoulder repaired after last season, doesn`t expect Gooden to be back at the start of the 1992 season.
”Doc`s going to be out a while next year-I mean a long time,” Elster said. ”Don`t expect any miracles from Doc next year.”
”I don`t have any fears. I don`t doubt myself,” said Gooden, who has a 132-53 lifetime record. ”I`ll be ready for regular workouts by spring training. Every individual is different, everybody`s work habit is different. I just have to worry about Dwight Gooden.”
Gooden starts a three-year $15.45 million contract in 1992.
