Hochevar diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome

Luke Hochevar's 2016 season has likely come to an end as the Kansas City Royals reliever was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome on Friday, according to Jeffrey Flanagan of MLB.com.

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a group of disorders caused by irritation or a compression of nerves or blood vessels in the lower neck and upper chest area.

While Hochevar, a potential free agent at season's end, will seek a second opinion from a specialist regarding the diagnosis, Royals manager Ned Yost told reporters the pitcher is slated to go under the knife to alleviate the condition.

"I think the biggest pill to swallow is not being available to the team," Hochevar said. "As for free agency, that stuff works itself out."

Thoracic outlet syndrome has already claimed another hurler this season, as New York Mets starter Matt Harvey was given the same diagnosis earlier in July. Harvey eventually opted to undergo season-ending surgery.