Angels Told Magrane’s Prognosis Is Fair

The Angels were cautiously optimistic after pitcher Joe Magrane’s surgery Tuesday that he will be able to return to the starting rotation by May.

Magrane underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left elbow in which “loose bodies and scar tissue were removed,” Dr. Lewis Yocum said. If the swelling is minimal the next seven to 10 days, Yocum said, Magrane will be able to start throwing softly in three weeks and begin a rehabilitative assignment in mid-April.

Magrane probably will be sent to Class-A Lake Elsinore for several starts before rejoining the Angels in late April or early May.

“We asked what the prognosis was,” said Bill Bavasi, Angel general manager, “and (Yocum) categorized it as fair. The surgery was pretty much as advertised, but we’ll know more after seeing how he does this spring.”

Magrane, who missed all but five starts during the 1991 and 1992 seasons because of reconstructive elbow surgery, stands to suffer financially if he fails to make a quick recovery. Magrane is guaranteed $1.5 million in 1994, but by making 30 starts, he could earn $3 million. Also, if Magrane fails to make 20 starts this season, his guaranteed salary in 1995 will be $1.5 million instead of $2.5 million.