New York Mets' Wheeler has torn UCL

New York Mets pitcher Zack Wheeler has a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow.

The Mets did not disclose the severity of the tear, but the injury most times leads to Tommy John surgery. Doctors, however, could recommend rest and rehab for a partial tear.

Wheeler underwent an MRI exam Saturday in Florida and the results were reviewed Monday by doctors in New York. The 24-year-old right-hander will return to New York on Monday for a further exam and to discuss the next step toward recovery.

Mets ace Matt Harvey underwent the reconstructive procedure in October 2013 and is making his return this spring after missing the entire 2014 campaign.

Another Mets pitcher, lefty reliever Josh Edgin, will have Tommy John surgery this spring.

Wheeler was set to begin his third season in the Mets' rotation. He was 11-11 with a 3.54 ERA in 32 starts last year after posting a mark of 7-5 with a 3.42 ERA in 17 starts in 2013.

[SportsNetwork.com]