Yankees lefty Zack Britton likely out until 2023 after Tommy John surgery

A nightmarish baseball year has mercifully ended for New York Yankees left-handed relief pitcher Zack Britton. 

His 2022 probably won't be that much better. 

As noted by the official MLB website, Britton underwent Tommy John surgery on Thursday and also had a bone chip removed. Per Dan Martin of the New York Post, specialist Dr. Neal ElAttrache performed the procedure in Los Angeles.

Based upon typical recovery timelines from similar operations, the 33-year-old most likely won't pitch again versus opposing batters until spring training 2023. 

Britton hasn't taken the bump since Aug. 19 and went on the injured list days later with what was initially said to be a strained left elbow. 

The previous offseason, he battled COVID-19 and told reporters he lost roughly 18 pounds because of the virus. Things didn't immediately improve for the veteran, as he underwent arthroscopic surgery to remove a bone chip in his left elbow in March and only made his season debut on June 12. 

Last month, Britton requested to be taken out of the closer role following repeated struggles. He ends his season with an 0-1 record, 5.89 ERA and one save in 22 appearances.