Jul 27, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani (17) sits in dugout in the second inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Game Two-Los Angeles Angels at Detroit Tigers
(Los Angeles, CA) – It’s the worst case scenario for Shohei Ohtani after leaving his most recent start with arm fatigue.
The two-way star and presumed favorite for the AL MVP has torn his UCL and may require Tommy John surgery.
This is a brutal blow for the young star ahead of his impending free agency, in which it was anticipated he’d sign a mega contract for upward of $500 million.
Now, he could be out as a pitcher for over 12 months. Ohtani is reportedly set to receive a second opinion on his injured elbow, but he’s not expected to pitch anymore this season.
Entering play on Thursday, the Angels were more or less buried in the race for the final AL Wild Card spot (back 10.5 games) with three teams ahead of them. A noted slugger and powerful right hander, Ohtani will have to give some thought to not getting Tommy John surgery – or potentially looking to return as a position player only – something that has a faster recovery.
When Phillies outfielder Bryce Harper underwent Tommy John surgery last year he was able to return to action about 150 days later.
Pitchers typically miss over a year of action following TJ surgery.
