PHOENIX -- When he learned that an MRI of his right elbow showed a tear in the ulnar collateral ligament, D-backs right-hander Taijuan Walker was surprised.
After being removed from his start against the Dodgers last Saturday with forearm tightness, Walker passed strength tests and did not feel like the injury was serious.
Wednesday, Dr. David Altchek confirmed the first opinion that Walker would need Tommy John surgery and be out at least for the next 12 months.
"It was very disappointing especially how I felt," Walker said.