Patrick Sandoval's Season Cut Short by Devastating Elbow Injury
In a heartbreaking turn of events, 27-year-old Patrick Sandoval, the Los Angeles Angels' opening-day starter, will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching elbow. The injury, which strikes an early and abrupt end to his season, came while pitching to his former teammate, Shohei Ohtani, during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Sandoval's season concludes with a record of 2-8, accompanied by a 5.08 ERA over 16 games. The injury became evident during a third-inning walk to Ohtani, where an 89.3 mph sinker — notably 4.6 mph slower than his typical pitches — forced Sandoval to hop off the mound, shaking his pitching arm and grimacing in pain. Initially diagnosed with left forearm tightness, further medical assessment revealed the severe damage: a torn UCL coupled with a high-grade flexor tear.
Tommy John surgery is now the only viable solution, plunging Sandoval into an extensive recovery period typically lasting between 12 to 18 months. Reflecting on his situation, Sandoval stated, "It's a long recovery process, but I'm going to come back stronger." The injury and subsequent surgery mean Sandoval will be out of action for the foreseeable future, adding another challenge for the Angels' roster.
The Impact on the Angels
With Sandoval's absence, the Angels will need to make significant adjustments. Manager Ron Washington expressed both his concern and optimism, saying, "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." Sandoval's role as the team's opening-day starter underscored his importance to the pitching rotation, making his sudden exit a significant blow to the lineup.
Sandoval's absence follows six seasons in the major leagues where he gathered a 19-45 record with a 4.01 ERA. This year, he was earning a salary of $5,025,000 and remains eligible for salary arbitration through the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Should he successfully rehabilitate and return to form post-surgery, he could become a free agent after the 2026 season.
A Painful Season End
The incident casts a shadow over what has been a challenging season for both the player and his team. Sandoval had been working hard to solidify his spot and contribute effectively to the Angels. "I love being out there playing. It's just unfortunate," he remarked, reflecting the shared sentiment among fans and teammates who had high hopes for his performances this year.
The fateful pitch not only ended his game prematurely but also underscored the unpredictability and physical demands of professional baseball. The recovery road ahead will require patience, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to rehab if Sandoval hopes to return to the mound.
Looking Forward
As the Angels adjust their strategy and rotations in Sandoval's absence, the rest of the league will no doubt keep a close eye on his recovery journey. The pitcher’s determination to return better than ever will be key, as echoed in his hopeful words: "It's a long recovery process, but I'm going to come back stronger." With the intensive rehabilitation process that Tommy John surgery entails, Sandoval’s resolve will be put to the test.
In the high-stakes world of Major League Baseball, injuries like these are a stark reminder of the relentless physical toll on players. For Patrick Sandoval, the journey through surgery and recovery will be a testament to his dedication and love for the game. As he navigates this setback, his supporters and team will be eager to see him back on the field, demonstrating once again the resilience that defines so many of baseball's greats.