That obviously didn't happen, and following an examination yesterday, Cordero shouldn't plan on returning anytime before 2009. Doctors discovered a torn labrum in his right shoulder yesterday, an injury the Nationals now think Cordero probably had the entire time. He'll undergo surgery soon and his rehab will extend into next season.
The last-place Nationals need all the help they can get, but honestly, Jon Rauch has been more than adequate as a replacement closer. Rauch has saved 16 of 21 games while posting an excellent 2.55 ERA (0.92 WHIP) and 8.29 K/9 -- Cordero hasn't posted numbers over a full season that strong since 2005.
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In fact, considering Cordero is arbitration-eligible this winter and set to be a free agent in 2010, I wouldn't be entirely surpised if the team actually cut ties with him this winter, not when they have a cheaper, healthier and (most importantly) better option in Rauch.
