SEATTLE (AP) — Mariners’ right-hander Matt Brash, one of the top relievers in the American League last season, underwent Tommy John surgery earlier this week and will miss the entire 2024 season, Seattle general manager Justin Hollander said Friday.

Brash had not pitched in the majors this season after experiencing discomfort in his elbow during spring training. He initially attempted to rehab the injury without the need for surgery, but last month experienced a setback just before going out on a rehab assignment.

Hollander said after meeting with Dr. Keith Meister in Arlington, Texas, the decision was made to have the surgery on Wednesday.

“To have his season go away like this stinks for him. Stinks for us,” Hollander said. “Probably one of the most popular players in the organization among his teammates, among staff members.”

Hollander said Brash had a partial tear in the posterior area of the ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow, an area of the ligament that’s difficult to rehabilitate without surgery. Brash was able to pitch without issue despite the tear until he started to experience pain while throwing last month.