CINCINNATI — Rays starter Jeffrey Springs is expected to have Tommy John elbow surgery that will sideline him into the 2024 season.
The Rays announced Tuesday afternoon that Springs, 31, has been diagnosed with a left elbow flexor strain and placed on the 15-day injured list. That move was procedural so the Rays could activate Taj Bradley to start Tuesday against the Reds.
Recovery from Tommy John surgery typically takes 12 to 15 months, so best case is that Springs could rejoin the Rays rotation in May 2024.
Manager Kevin Cash said Springs was processing the diagnosis.
“Obviously, he’s going on the IL with an elbow issue,” Cash said before Tuesday’s game. “I think in fairness to Jeff, he’s still processing the information that he’s gotten. He met with (Dr. Keith Meister on Tuesday). So I think we’re a day or two from him coming up with a decision on what is ideal for him and then a timetable from there.”
The Rays hadn’t said much since Springs left last Thursday’s game with what initially was said to be a nerve issue — ulnar neuritis — but upon further evaluation turned out to be more serious.
Springs underwent an MRI and was examined by team orthopedic doctor Dr. Koco Eaton on Friday. There was no announcement of that diagnosis, as Springs and the Rays wanted to solicit opinions from several other doctors. Those were believed to be done Monday and Tuesday, either by reviewing reports or examining Springs in person.
Springs had a breakout 2022 season after transitioning in May from the bullpen to the rotation, posting an 8-5, 2.65 record in 24 starts, while working a career-high 135 1/3 innings overall. The Rays rewarded him in January with a four-year contract for a guaranteed $31 million.
Bradley was optioned to Triple-A after his April 12 debut and could only be recalled in fewer than 15 days if replacing an injured player.
