A second MRI exam on Ivan Nova’s right elbow Monday delivered the same news one taken Saturday night did: a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament.
And the Yankees’ medical staff recommended Tommy John surgery.
Now it’s up to Nova to decide whether he undergoes the surgery on the hinge or attempts to rehab it. The usual time for recovery from the surgery is 12-to-18 months.
“I did not talk to him today,’’ Girardi said. “Obviously, we had an inkling that was going to be the recommendation. It’s unfortunate. Obviously he has to make a decision.’’
Vidal Nuno, who threw five scoreless innings against the Rays this past Sunday will start Saturday against the Angels at Yankee Stadium.
Nova, who gave up eight runs and eight hits (four homers) in four-plus innings Saturday, wasn’t the Yankees’ ace or their No. 2 starter but losing him hurts.
“Whenever you lose a starter it’s a blow,’’ Girardi said. “These are the guys you are counting on to go out there every fifth day. What he did the second part of last season we were encouraged but someone else has to step up.