Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Trey Yesavage has undergone surgery to repair the meniscus in his left knee, an operation that isn't necessarily season-ending.
The Blue Jays announced the news on Tuesday, with manager John Schneider telling reporters that Yesavage is considered week-to-week. This leaves the door open for his return this season if medically cleared and Toronto remains in the postseason mix.
Yesavage last pitched on August 4 against the Houston Astros. His knee appeared to buckle during his warmup prior to the third inning, and he was removed from the game after speaking with medical trainers.
The 27-year-old pitcher has had a strong first full MLB season, with a 3.65 ERA and 1.142 WHIP in 93 2/3 innings pitched. He's also recorded 91 strikeouts and 46 walks as the No. 2 starter behind All-Star Dylan Cease.
The Blue Jays conducted a mix of buying and selling at the trade deadline, dealing the expiring contracts of outfielder Daulton Varsho and pitcher Kevin Gausman while acquiring pitchers José Soriano, Jameson Taillon, and Spencer Arrighetti, among other deals.
However, Taillon (right forearm tendinitis) and Arrighetti (foot) are both on the injured list. The Blue Jays placed Taillon on the injured list Tuesday, a day after he left his Blue Jays debut after four innings.
The Blue Jays enter play on Tuesday in last place in the AL East at 57-63, but they're still reasonably in the wild-card hunt, 3.5 games out of the final wild-card spot in the AL. Where they stand if and when Yesavage is cleared to pitch this season would likely play a significant role in Toronto's decision whether or not to bring him back.
The surgery is a setback for the Blue Jays, who have struggled to find consistency this season. Despite their disappointing record, they remain in the mix for a wild-card spot, and Yesavage's return would be a significant boost to their chances.
The Blue Jays will have to wait and see how Yesavage's recovery progresses before making any decisions about his return. For now, the team is focusing on their current lineup and hoping that the new additions will help them make a push for the playoffs.
Source: Yahoo Sports