Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Matt Moore has a tear in the ulnar-collateral ligament of his injured elbow. UCL injuries almost always result in Tommy John surgery, which would end Moore's 2014 season and possibly cut into 2015.
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Moore, who left Monday night’s game with soreness in his pitching elbow, was placed on the disabled list Tuesday after an MRI proved inconclusive. He was sent to Dr. James Andrews who provided the grim diagnosis on Thursday.
Moore hasn’t decided to have the surgery, or to instead attempt the rehab route, as the tear isn't a complete tear. Rehabbing the injury would only cost him a month or two, but delaying the inevitable can be damaging if he needs surgery down the road anyway.
Moore missed more than a month last season with the same injury. “It’s frustrating even more so now,” Moore told reporters Tuesday.
By opting for surgery, Moore would join a growing list of players that have needed Tommy John this season. The list of victims includes once-trendy fantasy prospects such as Bobby Parnell, Kris Medlen Patrick Corbin, Bruce Rondon and Brandon Beachy
If you’re a fantasy owner relying on Moore this season, it’s probably time to start looking for alternative options. Moore is 0-2 with a 2.70 ERA and 1.50 WHIP through two starts this season.
Nate Eovaldi and Tyler Skaggs are pitchers that should be available in shallow mixed leagues that could be potential replacements for Moore. If you play in a deeper format, check the availability of Edinson Volquez, Aaron Harang, Jenrry Mejia, Robbie Ross and Jason Vargas if you’re looking for an extra arm.
Questions? Hit me on Twitter @briansflood
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