If and when MLB returns to the 2020 season, Pittsburgh Pirates will be one pitcher short. The team announced on Wednesday that their right-hander Chris Archer underwent a surgery that will sideline him until next year.
According to the Pirates, Archer had the surgery to relieve symptoms of “neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome.” The 31-year-old pitcher first felt the discomfort back in March and the issue got worse over time.
“What made it most challenging for Chris, he didn’t feel the symptoms immediately after throwing,” Pirates director of sports medicine Todd Tomczyk told reporters. “It was hours afterward. It was the next day.”
According to Tomczyk, Archer will miss six to eight months of rehabbing but should be fully ready for the 2021 season.
Pirates gave up several prospects in 2018 to acquire Chris Archer, hoping to boost their pitching core. Although Archer had a solid first year in Pittsburgh, things didn’t go well for him last season as he posted career-worst 5.19 ERA to go with 3-9 record. The veteran hoped to get back on track in 2020, but now he’ll have to wait an additional year to make a redemption attempt.
Archer previously spent six and a half years with Tampa Bay Rays, where he was a two-time All-Star. His career stats include 60–80 record, 3.86 ERA, and 1,349 strikeouts.
