ATLANTA — Atlanta Braves reliever Luke Jackson has a damaged ligament in his right elbow and there is no timetable for his return.
A key part of the bullpen last year during Atlanta’s run for the World Series championship, Jackson is having a “comprehensive evaluation,” the team said Saturday.
The Braves said tests revealed damage to the ulnar collateral ligament in Jackson’s elbow. The 30-year-old got tested following he was inactive for a week and then had soreness once more when he pitched once more.
Problems with the ulnar collateral ligament might lead to Tommy John surgery, which would end Jackson’s season.
Jackson recorded 18 saves in 2019 and has since served as one of the team’s best setup men. He went 2-2 with a career-best 1.98 ERA in 71 games in 2021, helping Atlanta win its first championship since 1995.
He had a 0.00 ERA in three World Series games once morest the Houston Astros, allowing one hit in 3⅔ innings.
The bullpen is one of the Braves’ deepest areas following the offseason additions of closer Kenley Jansen and Collin McHugh. If Jackson isn’t available, McHugh’s role becomes especially important as another righty in the bullpen.