In 2016, Garrett Richards looked like he might require Tommy John Surgery, but opted against it. The Los Angeles Angels right-hander is now facing a similar dilemma in 2018.
Richards started on Tuesday, but left the start with an arm injury. On Wednesday, an MRI revealed damage to his UCL.
UPDATE: Garrett Richards underwent an MRI of his right elbow today in LA. The MRI revealed damage to his ulnar collateral ligament. Garrett was presented with both conservative care & surgical options to treat the injury. An updated plan of care will be provided when appropriate.
— Los Angeles Angels (@Angels) July 11, 2018
Richards has already spent time on the DL this year with a hamstring injury.
Certainly, this is bad news for Richards and the Angels. With a 3.66 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and a 10.3 K/9 rate, he was enjoying one of the best years of his career.
Richards’ name had also been floated as a possible trade chip. This certainly won’t help that, especially if he opts for Tommy John Surgery.