(GOODYEAR, Ariz.) – Cleveland Indians right-hander Frank Herrmann underwent reconstructive surgery on his right elbow Wednesday morning in New York City at the Hospital for Special Surgery, a procedure that will keep him out for the 2013 season.

Herrmann, 28, is the longest tenured Indian on the 40-man roster.

Dr. David Altchek performed an ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction on Herrmann, a surgery also known as ‘Tommy John’ surgery. Herrmann started having elbow issues following an outing against the Oakland Athletics on Feb. 25 during Cactus League exhibition play.

Herrmann had gone to other doctors for opinions prior to visiting Altchek in New York City. The rehab period is expected to last 12-to-18 months.

The Harvard University grad appeared in 15 games with the Tribe in 2012 going 0-0 with a 2.33 ERA. Herrmann spent most of last season with Triple-A Columbus going 2-2 with an ERA of 4.78.

Herrmann was competing for one of four open spots in the Indians bullpen this spring.

- Nick Camino