Ramos has surgery for torn ACL, Nats say rehab is 6-8 months

Wilson Ramos had surgery to repair the torn ACL in his right knee today, a procedure that may not allow the soon-to-be free agent catcher to be ready for the start of the 2017 season.

Ramos also had repairs done to the medial meniscus and lateral meniscus in his knee, the Nationals said. Rehab from the surgery, performed by orthopedist Robert Najarian, is expected to take six to eight months.

The 29-year-old catcher was enjoying the best season of his career when he hurt himself leaping to catch a high throw to the plate from Ryan Zimmerman on Sept. 26. He crumpled to the ground in obvious pain and had to be helped off the field.

Ramos, who finished his All-Star campaign with a .307 batting average, .354 on-base percentage, 22 homers, 80 RBIs and .850 OPS, stayed with the Nationals through the season's final week and throughout the National League Division Series. Wearing a brace over his knee, he limped to the mound to throw out the ceremonial first pitch before Game 1 against the Dodgers, drawing a roar from the crowd at Nationals Park, which may not get another opportunity to celebrate him as a hometown player.

Ramos is eligible to become a free agent after the World Series concludes. It's unclear how the market for him will develop, given the fact he's not likely to complete his rehab until after opening day 2017, but he acknowledged at season's end he may have no choice but to sign with an American League club that can offer him opportunities to serve as designated hitter.

Ramos previously tore the same ACL in 2012 and also suffered several other leg injuries during his six-plus seasons with the Nationals.

"I want to wholeheartedly thank the Nationals fans for there (sic) support and well wishes during this period & my surgery I love u fans and miss u," Ramos posted on his Twitter account today. "The surgery was a success thanks to God and thank you again for your well wishes...The Buffalo."