The Baltimore Orioles suffered a major blow on Wednesday when they learned that Zach Britton ruptured his right Achilles sprinting during an offseason workout.

Britton is expected to have surgery on Thursday and will be sidelined for at least four months.

"It's probably the most frustrating thing I've experienced," the reliever said. "Last year [being on the disabled list was disappointing], but those were minor things. Now, this isn't something that's going to affect me long term. As soon as I have the surgery and rehab, I can get back to pitching like I can pitch. It's not career threatening or anything like that. But it's just going to be a real grind. I was really frustrated because I was feeling good with the forearm and the knee. I was about to throw bullpens. I was right where I wanted to be."

Britton will be eligible for free agency after the 2018 season.