Angels Pitcher Patrick Sandoval to Undergo Tommy John Surgery
Angels Pitcher Patrick Sandoval to Undergo Tommy John Surgery
The Los Angeles Angels have been dealt a significant blow with the news that left-handed pitcher Patrick Sandoval has been diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching elbow. This injury will not only end his season prematurely but will also require season-ending Tommy John surgery.
The unfortunate incident occurred during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Sandoval was on the mound facing his former teammate, Shohei Ohtani, when he felt the injury. It was during a third-inning pitch—an 89.3 mph sinker—that was notably slower by 4.6 mph compared to his previous pitches. The signs were instantaneous; Sandoval hopped off the mound, shaking his pitching arm in visible pain, grimacing, and motioning towards the dugout for assistance. Initially diagnosed with left forearm tightness, a further medical evaluation confirmed the worst fears - a torn UCL coupled with a high-grade flexor tear.
Reflecting on the surgery ahead, Sandoval said, "It's a long recovery process, but I'm going to come back stronger." For an athlete who has played six seasons in the major leagues and was the Angels' opening-day starter, this setback is particularly disheartening. Sandoval's season had been challenging, as he amassed a record of 2-8 with a 5.08 ERA over 16 games. His overall career statistics include a 19-45 record with a 4.01 ERA.
Manager Ron Washington expressed his sorrow over Sandoval's situation. "It's tough for him, especially him, because he was really, really starting to compete. Now we know he's got to get it fixed," Washington said. The manager's words underscore the anticipated recovery time of 12-18 months, which will entail rigorous rehabilitation and resilience from the 27-year-old pitcher.
Sandoval's love for the game was evident in his remarks: "I love being out there playing. It's just unfortunate." This season, he was earning a salary of $5,025,000 and is eligible for salary arbitration through the 2024 and 2025 seasons. He could become a free agent after the 2026 season, making the timing of this injury all the more critical.
The loss of Sandoval will necessitate adjustments within the Angels' pitching lineup. It is a significant loss for the team, given Sandoval's role and experience. The team will now need to find a way to compensate for his absence as they navigate the rest of the season.
As Sandoval embarks on the long road to recovery, the baseball community will undoubtedly be watching closely, hopeful for his eventual return to the mound. The journey through Tommy John surgery is arduous, but Sandoval's determination and love for the game suggest he will tackle this challenge head-on.
