Nick Burdi, who hasn’t pitched for the past two months but started the season as an important member of the Pittsburgh Pirates’ bullpen, had season-ending surgery Tuesday to relieve symptoms of arm pain diagnosed as neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome.
The surgery was performed by vascular surgeon Dr. Robert Thompson.
Nick Burdi underwent surgery today by Dr. Robert Thompson aimed to relieve symptoms of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome. Nick is projected to participate in full baseball activities by Spring Training 2020.
— Pirates (@Pirates) June 26, 2019
During a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks on April 22, Burdi crumpled to his knees and grabbed his right arm in pain after throwing a 97 mph fastball.
The injury was eventually diagnosed as a compression of a network of nerves that come from the spinal cord. He has been rehabbing the injury in Bradenton, Fla., but the Pirates’ medical staff finally decided surgery was the best treatment.
The team believes Burdi will recover in time to participate in spring training next year.
Prior to his injury, Burdi had pitched in 11 of the Pirates’ first 21 games, recording a 2-1 record and 9.35 ERA while striking out 17 batters in only 8 1/3 innings.
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