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Pirates right-hander Jameson Taillon underwent surgery to treat suspected testicular cancer Monday morning, according to an announcement from the club.
Taillon, 25, was recently placed on the 10-day disabled list with “groin discomfort” after last pitching for the Pirates on Wednesday. The discomfort obviously revealed something much more serious, and a timetable for his return is not known at this time.
Taillon is the second major-league pitcher to undergo surgery for suspected testicular cancer this season, as Rockies righty Chad Bettis had a procedure in December. Unfortunately, Bettis announced in March that his cancer had unexpectedly spread, causing him to undergo chemotherapy treatments.
Taillon has been effective so far in his first major-league season, posting a 3.31 ERA and 7.6 K/9 in six starts for the Bucs to this point. His absence is the latest unforeseen loss for the Pirates, who are missing key contributors Jung-ho Kang (legal troubles) and Starling Marte (80-game PED suspension) as well.
Of course, Taillon’s health is far more important than baseball. We here at MLBDD wish him the best in his recovery.