Sandoval Faces Season-Ending Surgery After UCL Tear
Patrick Sandoval, the talented 27-year-old pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels, has been diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching elbow. This significant injury requires immediate, season-ending surgery, adding to the Angels’ already challenging season.
The incident occurred during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Sandoval was pitching to his former teammate Shohei Ohtani when the injury struck. In the third inning, after issuing a walk to Ohtani, Sandoval's final pitch, an 89.3 mph sinker, was notably slower by over four miles per hour compared to his previous pitches. He immediately showed clear signs of distress, hopping off the mound, shaking his pitching arm, and motioning to the dugout with a grimace of pain. Initially diagnosed with left forearm tightness, further medical evaluation revealed the more severe torn UCL and a high-grade flexor tear.
For Sandoval, the news is devastating. "It's a long recovery process, but I'm going to come back stronger," he vowed. This demonstrates his resilience despite the unfortunate circumstances. The surgery he will undergo is known as Tommy John surgery, and it typically requires a grueling 12 to 18 months of rehabilitation.
Sandoval's Contributions and Season Struggles
Sandoval, who served as the Angels' opening-day starter this season, has had a mixed year. His record stands at 2-8 with a 5.08 ERA over 16 games. These statistics reflect some of the challenges he and the team have faced throughout the season. Despite these difficulties, Sandoval’s presence on the mound has been a cornerstone for the Angels, making his loss even more significant.
The 2023 season has marked Sandoval’s sixth year in the major leagues, during which he has recorded a career total of 19-45 with a 4.01 ERA. His current salary is $5,025,000, with eligibility for salary arbitration through the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Sandoval is poised to become a free agent after the 2026 season, making his recovery and return even more critical for his future and the team’s strategic planning.
Manager Ron Washington remarked on Sandoval's unfortunate 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." This comment highlights the progress Sandoval was making before the injury and the necessity of the surgical intervention.
Angels Face Adjustments Without Sandoval
Sandoval’s absence will undoubtedly require the Angels to make significant adjustments. His role as a starting pitcher is not easily filled, and the team will need to strategize to compensate for the loss both in the short and long term.
The Angels have had a season marked by challenges and changes, and this latest development adds another layer of complexity. Sandoval’s journey through recovery will be watched closely, not only by his team and fans but by the wider baseball community.
Despite the setbacks, Sandoval remains committed to his love for the game. "I love being out there playing. It's just unfortunate," he lamented. His passion for baseball and determination to return stronger underscore the spirit that drives many professional athletes facing similar adversities.
As Sandoval embarks on this lengthy rehabilitation process, the baseball world offers support, hoping for his return to the mound where he can once again showcase his talent and fortitude.