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Giants' Birdsong Out for 2026 After Surgery

3/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

San Francisco Giants pitcher Hayden Birdsong will undergo Tommy John surgery next week, sidelining him for the 2026 season and likely part of 2027.
Birdsong experienced elbow discomfort in spring training, resulting in a forearm strain and UCL sprain.
Surgery decision followed consultations with Dr. Keith Meister.
The Giants will rely on Trevor McDonald and Carson Whisenhunt.
Birdsong's recovery is projected to take 12-16 months.

History

Historical Context

In 1974, Dr. Frank Jobe performed the first ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, known as Tommy John surgery, on pitcher Tommy John, who later returned to win 164 games post-surgery. This groundbreaking procedure has since become common, with over 25% of Major League Baseball players undergoing it, significantly impacting athlete rehabilitation and extending careers in professional sports.

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Story summary

San Francisco Giants pitcher Hayden Birdsong will undergo Tommy John surgery next week, sidelining him for the 2026 season and likely part of 2027.
Birdsong experienced elbow discomfort in spring training, resulting in a forearm strain and UCL sprain.
Surgery decision followed consultations with Dr. Keith Meister.
The Giants will rely on Trevor McDonald and Carson Whisenhunt.
Birdsong's recovery is projected to take 12-16 months.

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