PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Pirates starter Vince Velasquez was one of the reasons for the team’s hot start. The right-hander is now lost for the season after elbow surgery on Wednesday.
It’s not Tommy John surgery, it’s a hybrid between a reconstruction and a repair. Because of that, the return is faster as Velasquez is expected to start throwing in four months and return to competition in 11 to 12 months.
“Unfortunate for us, but for the longevity of Vince’s career, very optimistic he will be able to return and at a very high level,” said Pirates Director of Sports Medicine Todd Tomczyk on Friday. “The doctor is very confident he will be able to hit those goals, but have a sustainable career for years to come.”
“What it means for this rotation going forward, it tests depth,” said Pirates manager Derek Shelton. “We are going to have different guys step up.
Whether it’s guys that are here or guys within the organization. The next guy has the step up.”
Tomczyk said the injury is related to the one originally suffered in Tampa Bay, but it's something that was just a matter of time before he needed surgery. Velasquez had Tommy John surgery eight games into the start of this professional career in 2010.
RHP Wil Crowe-progressed to throwing from 120 feet, no issues no concerns, should start throwing a side-session next week
RHP Max Kranick-will throw live to hitters in the next couple of weeks. He is currently with the team to build up his morale. Tomczyk said it’s tough to be stuck in Florida rehabbing as the time table remains for a potential September return. “I think it’s important for any of our guys to feel a part of the club,” Shelton said. “It’s a brotherhood and you miss it when you are not here.”
SS Oneil Cruz-out of the walking boot, learning how to walk again, getting range of motion back you might see him from time-to-time on a crutch, but that is part of the rehab. “Hopefully will play baseball at a high level very, very soon,” Tomczyk said.
1B Ji-Man Choi-performing all baseball activities, continues to work through the running progression. Will start running the bases in 7-10 days. Won’t know where or when his minor league rehab will start until after he runs the bases.