Marlins' Ramirez expected to have surgery By Sports Network

Florida Marlins' Hanley Ramirez grins as he looks to first base after he threw out New York Mets batter Ronny Paulino. (REUTERS/Ray Stubblebine)

Florida Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez is expected to undergo surgery on his injured left shoulder.

According to the team's website, the club's physician recommended the procedure, which would allow Ramirez to be fully healthy by Opening Day next year.

Ramirez injured his shoulder in a game against the New York Mets on August 2. He has been on the disabled list ever since and aggravated the injury in a rehab assignment earlier this week.

Ramirez struggled at the plate this year, hitting .243 with 10 homers and 45 RBI. The three-time All-Star had hit over .292 in each of his five big-league seasons prior to the season-long slump.