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The Yankees just took a major blow to the starting rotation. According to multiple reports, left-handed pitcher Jordan Montgomery requires Tommy John surgery. He is scheduled to undergo the procedure on Thursday.
Montgomery, 25, left a May 1st start against Houston after the first inning. He experienced elbow tightness and landed on the disabled list shortly thereafter. The Yankees were initially optimistic he avoided structural damage, but this news indicates otherwise.
The southpaw started six games for the Bombers this year. He pitched to a 3.62 ERA with 4.18 FIP. Fresh off a revelation of a season in 2017, many expected Montgomery to shore up the back of the rotation. He provided consistency and stability in the fifth starter spot, plus he offered upside.
This leaves the Yankees in a precarious spot. Their rotation depth is razor thin, with Domingo German starting regularly. Justus Sheffield, the team’s top pitching prospect, still needs developing, while the other Triple-A options prove uninspiring. One would expect Brian Cashman to ramp up his trade discussions once the draft finishes.
At least some evaluators think the Yankees are in position to absorb the blow and add a pitcher.
#Yankees are well positioned to add a starting pitcher, after news that Jordan Montgomery will have Tommy John surgery. They can add at least $12 million in salary obligations for 2018 (by AAV) and still avoid paying the luxury tax. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 5, 2018
Until a trade happens, the Yankees are in a rough spot. This is terrible news. Get well soon, Monty!