Pirates Pitcher Jameson Taillon Undergoes 2nd Tommy John Surgery in Middle of Other Elbow Procedure

Once upon a time, the Pirates next golden generation was supposed to be led by Gregory Polanco, Tyler Glasnow, Austin Meadows and James Taillon.

Glasnow and Meadows were of course dealt to the Rays as part of the disastrous Chris Archer trade. The remainder of the core four has failed to live up to expectations, and in Taillon's case it's due to injury.

On Wednesday, Taillon underwent a procedure to repair a flexor tendon in his elbow, but it was also discovered he needed Tommy John surgery. This was long considered the worst-case scenario in his recovery.

Taillon missed the entire 2014 season, a time in which he was meant to be developing in the Pirates' farm system, with Tommy John surgery. His second procedure will cost him the entire 2020 campaign.

Taillon was undoubtedly the pitcher with the most potential on the Pirates roster entering this past season, especially with the hope that his injury issues were a thing of the past. The 27-year-old has a career 3.67 ERA, including a 14-10 record with a 3.20 ERA season in 2017.

While the Pirates are hopeful Taillon will be ready to return for the start of 2021, the question remains exactly how effective he'll be.

Nevertheless, this is a major blow for Pittsburgh's pitching staff moving forward.