Matt Harrison had spinal fusion surgery today

Texas Rangers lefthanded pitcher Matt Harrison underwent spinal fusion surgery today, according to T.R. Sullivan.  The surgery almost certainly ends Harrison's season, and there are some concerns that this could be career-ending for Harrison.

Harrison missed most of last season with a herniated disc in his back that required two surgeries, and then underwent Thoracic Outlet Syndrome surgery in the second half of the 2013 season.

Harrison was expected to be back at full strength in 2014, but was plagued by back issues that resulted in him being diagnosed with spondylolisthesis, the back issue which necessitated the surgery.

Harrison came over to Texas as part of the Mark Teixeira trade, and had established himself in 2011-12 as one of the Rangers' best starting pitchers.  He had signed a 5 year, $55 million contract extension prior to the 2013 season.  Evan Grant has previously written that, if Harrison cannot pitch again, insurance would pay approximately 80% of what Harrison is owed.