Patrick Sandoval Faces Season-Ending Surgery
In a significant blow to the Los Angeles Angels' roster, pitcher Patrick Sandoval has been diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching elbow. The injury, which occurred during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, will necessitate season-ending surgery.
The moment of injury was a particularly poignant one, coming during a pitch to his former teammate, Shohei Ohtani. Sandoval, 27, was in his third inning of work when he issued a walk to Ohtani. His last pitch, clocked at 89.3 mph, was notably slower by 4.6 mph compared to his previous deliveries. Upon releasing the ball, Sandoval immediately hopped off the mound, shaking his pitching arm and grimacing in pain before motioning to the dugout.
Initially diagnosed with left forearm tightness, further medical evaluation revealed a torn UCL coupled with a high-grade flexor tear, a serious injury that will require Tommy John surgery. The recovery process typically spans 12-18 months of rigorous rehabilitation.
"It's a long recovery process, but I'm going to come back stronger," Sandoval assured fans and teammates, underscoring his determination to return to the mound.
Manager Ron Washington echoed the pitcher’s resolve, 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 has been a mainstay for the Angels over the past six seasons, starting his career in the major leagues with potential and promise. This year, he held the honor of being the Angels' opening-day starter, testament to the confidence the organization placed in him. However, his season record of 2-8 with a 5.08 ERA in 16 games points to the challenges he faced this year on the mound.
Despite these struggles, Sandoval’s career statistics reflect his capability and persistence: a 19-45 record with a 4.01 ERA over his six seasons. His resilience and skills have earned him a contractual salary of $5,025,000 this year, and he remains eligible for salary arbitration through the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Sandoval stands to become a free agent after the 2026 season, a timeline now complicated by his impending surgery and recovery.
As the Angels look to navigate the remainder of the season without one of their key pitchers, they must make strategic adjustments to their roster. Sandoval’s absence leaves a void, both in terms of his innings on the mound and his presence in the clubhouse.
"I love being out there playing. It's just unfortunate," Sandoval remarked, capturing the sentiment of a player eager to play and contribute to his team. His departure from the game was a somber moment for fans and teammates alike, underscoring the unpredictable and often harsh realities of professional sports.
Looking forward, the Angels and Sandoval both recognize the road ahead will be challenging. Yet, Sandoval’s determination to return stronger provides a glimmer of hope and resilience amid the setback.
The professional sports world is all too familiar with the rigors and uncertainties of injuries, but it is the comebacks that truly capture the spirit of the game. For Patrick Sandoval, the journey to recovery begins now, with a promise to return and an unwavering commitment to his craft.