KISSIMMEE, Fla. (AP) -- The Atlanta Braves say left-handed reliever Andrew McKirahan is likely headed for his second major elbow surgery after going down in his first appearance of spring training.
General manager John Coppolella announced before Saturday's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates that McKirahan is expected to miss the season after being diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament.
McKirahan will get a second opinion from Dr. James Andrews, but the Braves believe Tommy John surgery will be required. The 26-year-old pitcher already underwent that procedure in 2012.
The injury occurred Wednesday on his fifth pitch of his spring debut against the Orioles.