Indians’ LaPorta undergoes hip surgery

Cleveland, OH, United States (4E Sports) – Matt LaPorta’s already uncertain future with the Cleveland Indians became even bleaker when he underwent a left hip arthroscopy Thursday that needs three to four months of recovery and rehabilitation.

This marked the second time that LaPorta underwent operation on his left hip. He also underwent an arthroscopic left hip procedure in 2009.

The surgery has put LaPorta’s career with the Indians in jeopardy. General manager Chris Antonetti said he has to compete against younger and healthier players in Spring Training for regular slots in the team.

“He’s out of options going into next year,” Antonetti said. “So he’ll either have to be on a Major League team somewhere or he’d have to go through waivers before he could be sent back to the Minor Leagues.

LaPorta served as first baseman and designated hitter in his 22-game stint with the Indians last season. He also spent some time in left field while with Triple-A Columbus.

The Indians are eyeing to beef up these three positions as first baseman Casey Kotchman will be eligible for free agency and Cleveland will likely decline the $13 million club option on veteran DH Travis Hafner’s contract.

The 27-year-old LaPorta hit .241 with one home run and five RBIs in his stint with the Indians. In 101 games with Triple-A Columbus, he hit at a .264 clip with 19 homers, 19 doubles and 62 RBIs.

In parts of four big league seasons with the Indians, LaPorta has hit .238 with a .301 on-base percentage and a .393 slugging percentage. In 291 career games in the Majors, LaPorta has 31 homers and 120 RBIs.

The Indians acquired LaPorta as a key piece in the trade that sent pitcher CC Sabathia to the Brewers in 2008.

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