Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Drew Hutchinson works against Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning of MLB interleague baseball action in Toronto on Friday June 15 , 2012. Hutchinson left the game after nine pitches with a sore right elbow.Chris Young/The Canadian Press
A second medical opinion has confirmed that Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Drew Hutchison has suffered a ligament strain in his right elbow.
But Toronto manager John Farrell told reporters on Tuesday that the team still isn't certain if the right-hander will require surgery.
That will be a decision the 21-year-old rookie will make later in the week.
There is a chance the injury could heal on its own through rest and rehabilitation, but there are no guarantees.
Hutchison could still wind up having surgery a month or two down the road, which would only delay his ultimate return to the big-league club.
Tommy John ligament replacement surgery normally requires at least a 12-month layoff.
Hutchison injured himself in a game last Wednesday against the Washington Nationals. He has already been placed on the 15-day disabled list.