Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Packy Naughton Exits MLB Debut with Elbow Pain

4/10/2026

29 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Packy Naughton of the St. Louis Cardinals exited his 2026 MLB debut after three pitches due to left elbow pain.
He previously tore his flexor tendon in 2023, then re-tore and tore the ulnar collateral ligament in 2024, requiring Tommy John surgery.
He posted a 1.29 ERA during spring training, but the elbow issue clouds his return.
The severity of the latest elbow injury remains unconfirmed.

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 faced a career-threatening injury. This innovative procedure has since been performed over 25,000 times, allowing many athletes, including Packy Naughton, to return to competitive play, highlighting the ongoing challenges of elbow injuries in Major League Baseball.

1 of 2

Story summary

Packy Naughton of the St. Louis Cardinals exited his 2026 MLB debut after three pitches due to left elbow pain.
He previously tore his flexor tendon in 2023, then re-tore and tore the ulnar collateral ligament in 2024, requiring Tommy John surgery.
He posted a 1.29 ERA during spring training, but the elbow issue clouds his return.
The severity of the latest elbow injury remains unconfirmed.

1 / 2