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Twins' López Faces Potential Surgery, 2026 Season in Jeopardy

2/18/2026

22 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

López's Injury Woes

Pablo López of the Minnesota Twins has a right elbow UCL tear confirmed by MRI after soreness in a bullpen session.
The injury could require surgery and could sideline him for the 2026 season.
López will seek a second opinion.
The Twins weigh rotation changes, with Joe Ryan likely Opening Day starter and signings considered to bolster depth after López pitched 14 games in 2025 due to prior injuries.

History

Historical Context

In 1974, Dr. Frank Jobe performed the first successful ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction, known as Tommy John surgery, on pitcher Tommy John. This groundbreaking procedure has since become common, with over 25% of MLB pitchers undergoing it by 2020. Recent cases, like Pablo López's UCL tear, underscore the ongoing challenges of elbow injuries in baseball, influencing team strategies and player management.

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López's Injury Woes

Pablo López of the Minnesota Twins has a right elbow UCL tear confirmed by MRI after soreness in a bullpen session.
The injury could require surgery and could sideline him for the 2026 season.
López will seek a second opinion.
The Twins weigh rotation changes, with Joe Ryan likely Opening Day starter and signings considered to bolster depth after López pitched 14 games in 2025 due to prior injuries.

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