Twins pitcher Pablo López is set for Tommy John surgery this Wednesday, as reported by Aaron Gleeman. Just days ago, the Twins revealed he had torn the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. After getting a second opinion, the outcome was clear—surgery was necessary.
This will be López’s second Tommy John procedure, the first being over ten years ago. He’ll sit out all of 2026 but hopes to make a comeback early in 2027, the final year of his four-year, $73.5 million contract with the Twins. Despite the setback, he’s still earning $21.75 million this season and next.
The Twins acquired López from the Marlins in January 2023 in exchange for Luis Arraez. Over three seasons with Minnesota, he has been consistent, boasting a combined ERA of 3.68 and impressive strikeout and walk rates. With his strong metrics, experts believe he’s been even better than his ERA suggests.
In 2025, López started strong with a 2.82 ERA in his first 11 games. But a Grade 2 strain in June sidelined him for nearly three months. He returned to pitch effectively in September, allowing just four runs in 15 innings. The team opted to rest him rather than risk further injury, especially since they were out of playoff contention. He was cleared for the offseason, but the UCL tear appeared during a bullpen session in spring training.
Despite a challenging season last year, which saw the Twins part ways with numerous free agents, they decided not to fully rebuild this winter. New minority shareholders have allowed the team some flexibility, enabling them to make modest signings like Victor Caratini, Josh Bell, and Taylor Rogers. Some key players, including López, were not traded, signaling the Twins’ intent to compete.
Tom Pohlad, the new executive chair, has expressed optimism about the team’s potential. The Twins briefly pursued pitchers Framber Valdez and Freddy Peralta, showing they might look to bolster their roster further.
With López out, fellow right-hander Joe Ryan is likely to start on Opening Day. Bailey Ober, recovering from a tough June, is also in the mix. Simeon Woods Richardson, who performed well late last season, is expected to secure a rotation spot along with former top prospects Zebby Matthews and David Festa. Others like Connor Prielipp, Kendry Rojas, and Andrew Morris might also get chances throughout the season, depending on how things go in Triple-A.
In a world where injuries are a common part of sports, Tommy John surgery has become almost routine, with around 25% of MLB pitchers undergoing the procedure. Recovery can take over a year, making the return of healthy pitchers crucial for team success.
As the Twins navigate this challenging season ahead, fans will be watching closely to see how their pitching staff adapts in the absence of a key player like López. Everyone is wishing him a smooth recovery and a successful return to the diamond.
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