Chris Archer

The Pirates have placed RHP Chris Archer on the 60-day IL.

Fantasy Impact

Archer will miss the 2020 season after undergoing surgery to relieve symptoms of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome in early June. Look for Chad Kuhl and Steven Brault to compete for a spot in the rotation. Archer has an $11 million club option for 2021, which also includes a buyout. The 31-year-old will rehab and look to get back on track for the 2021 campaign.

Chris Archer underwent surgery to relieve symptoms of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome on Tuesday. He will miss the 2020 season.

Fantasy Impact

Archer is projected to return for the 2021 season. The news comes as a surprise as there was nothing reported this off-season about Archer dealing with any physical concerns. The 31-year-old pitcher also has an $11 million team option for 2021. Archer will miss the 2020 season and should only be retained in dynasty-league formats.

Chris Archer allowed one hit and one walk while striking out four across two scoreless innings in Friday's Grapefruit League contest against Toronto.

Fantasy Impact

Archer made his spring debut on Friday after battling neck soreness the past two weeks. He looked sharp and walked away from the game with no setbacks. Archer is currently competing with Joe Musgrove for the team’s Opening Day starter. Barring a setback and more strong spring showings, Archer could see his draft stock continue to rise during fantasy draft season.

Chris Archer (neck) has been confirmed as the starting pitcher for Friday's spring game against the Blue Jays.

Fantasy Impact

Archer will start Friday's game against the Blue Jays after missing the last two weeks due to a stiff neck. It is unclear how much Archer will pitch, but expect the 31-year to be limited. Archer is looking to rebound from a disastrous 2019, where he owned a 3-9 record, 5.19 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 143:55 K:BB across 119 2/3 innings. A strong could raise Archer’s fantasy stock during draft season.

Chris Archer (neck) is scheduled to make his spring debut Friday.

Fantasy Impact

Archer was scratched two weeks ago with a stiff neck, but will make his first start on Friday. If he can avoid any setbacks after Friday’s start, Archer should be ready for Opening Day. The injury doesn’t appear to be serious, and a strong spring showing could raise Archer’s fantasy stock during draft season.