Ladner pitcher James Paxton could be sidelined for up to four months following spinal surgery on Wednesday.
The 31-year-old left-hander with the New York Yankees underwent a microscopic lumbar discectomy with removal of a peridiscal cyst, according to a release from the club. The surgery was performed by Dr. Andrew Dossett in Dallas, Texas.
According to his close friend Chad Dey, Paxton had been dealing with the injury since late last season, including his dominant game five performance against Houston in the American League Championship Series. He worked hard in the off-season, hoping surgery would not be required but ultimately it was his best option with spring training looming.
The Delta Secondary graduate is coming off a 15-6 campaign with an ERA of 3.82 in 32 starts. It was his first season in New York after being traded from the Seattle Mariners.
Paxton is making $12.5 million (US) this season and could hit the market as a free agent for the first time in his career at season's end.
