Atlanta Braves' Sean Rodriguez likely out for season after surgery

Atlanta Braves infielder Sean Rodriguez underwent surgery for a torn rotator cuff in his left shoulder this week and likely will miss the upcoming season.

Dr. James Andrews performed the surgery Tuesday on Rodriguez, who signed a two-year, $11.5 million contract in November after a career season with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Rodriguez is expected to miss as many as eight months as he recovers, putting his potential return date toward the final month of a season on a team that isn't expected to contend.

Atlanta acquired veteran second baseman Brandon Phillips last weekend and is expected to be the team's everyday starter.

Rodriguez hit .260 with 22 home runs and 73 RBIs in the past two seasons with the Pirates. He batted .270 with 18 homers and 56 RBIs last season in 140 games -- all career highs -- when he made $2.5 million.

Rodriguez played two years with the Los Angeles Angels and five seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays. He is a career .234 hitter with 67 home runs and 259 RBIs.