LOS ANGELES — Miami Marlins ace Jose Fernandez has a significant tear in his right elbow and the team doctor is recommending that he have Tommy John surgery.
Team president Michael Hill made the announcement in the Dodger Stadium press box during Tuesday night’s game against Los Angeles.
The 21-year-old Fernandez was put on the 15-day disabled list Monday. Last season’s NL Rookie of the Year was examined Tuesday by Marlins team physician Lee Kaplan in Florida.
The Marlins said Fernandez is visiting with his family to talk about his options.
The rehabilitation period for Tommy John surgery can be 12 to 18 months. Several prominent pitchers have already had the elbow ligament transplant procedure this year.
Fernandez is 4-2 with a 2.44 ERA in eight starts. Right-hander Anthony DeSclafani will be promoted from the minors and start Wednesday night in his major league debut.
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