Shattering news coming out for Twins nation as it was reported Pablo Lopez has a torn UCL and could potentially miss the 2026 season. Lopez is expected to get evaluated a second time according to reports, however, it is unlikely he will see action for much of the season if not all of it.
It’s possible Lopez could attempt to pitch through the injury like others have in the past, but those that do usually see a drop in velocity and sometimes only prevents the inevitable.
Lopez originally experienced discomfort in his right arm Monday after throwing two-plus innings during the team’s first full-squad workout and ended up going for an MRI on the arm.
New Twins manager, Derek Shelton, wasn’t thrilled with going over possible worst-cast scenarios, but it seems he expects to be without his No. 2 starter in his rotation.
Lopez, who will be turning 30 in March, is entering his fourth season with the Twins and would fall behind ace Joe Ryan in the rotation.
Those two have high hopes of helping the Twins rebound from last year’s 70-92 season, but Lopez missing the year could instead lead to questions about when Ryan may be traded.
If Lopez undergoes surgery, it would be his second straight season dealing with injuries.
Comments