Tue, Sep 23

Updating a previous report, Joe Strauss, of the St. Louis Post-
Dispatch, reports:

St. Louis Cardinals SP Chris Carpenter (shoulder) is suffering from a
career-threatening compression and scarring of a series of nerves
connected to his right shoulder, according to sources familiar with
the situation. He visited with a neurosurgeon Tuesday, Sept. 23, and
surgery is very possible. His situation is believed to be symptomatic
of a problem that led to various nerve complications dating back to
2004, when a nerve running to his right biceps sidelined him.
Carpenter underwent an MRI on his neck, which found damage to at least
five nerves. He has experienced tingling in the pinkie and ring finger
on his right hand while also experiencing symptoms associated with
carpal tunnel syndrome. Doctors have focused on the brachial plexus, a
bundle of nerves running from the spine to the neck and beneath the
collarbone. Surgery would only be performed if neurosurgeons believe
it will provide Carpenter with a chance for improvement. He would face
a recovery time of two to three months if surgery were to be
performed. The team will not make any announcements until more is
known on the situation, but they are unsure about his availability for
next season.