Patrick Sandoval's Season Ends with Devastating UCL Tear
Los Angeles Angels pitcher Patrick Sandoval’s season has come to an abrupt end after he was diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching elbow. The injury, which necessitates season-ending Tommy John surgery, occurred during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, marking a significant setback for both Sandoval and the Angels.
The unfortunate injury took place during a pitch to Sandoval’s former teammate, Shohei Ohtani. As Sandoval delivered what would be his final pitch of the game, an 89.3 mph sinker, he immediately showed signs of distress. The pitch was notably 4.6 mph slower than his previous deliveries, a discrepancy that did not go unnoticed. Sandoval was seen hopping off the mound, shaking his pitching arm, grimacing in pain, and motioning to the dugout, clearly aware that something was wrong.
Initially diagnosed with left forearm tightness, further medical evaluation revealed a torn UCL coupled with a high-grade flexor tear. This diagnosis confirmed the severity of the situation, necessitating Tommy John surgery—a procedure that typically requires 12-18 months of rehabilitation.
“It’s a long recovery process, but I’m going to come back stronger,” Sandoval said, exhibiting his determination to return to the mound despite the daunting road ahead. “I love being out there playing. It’s just unfortunate.”
Sandoval's manager, Ron Washington, expressed his disappointment for the young pitcher. “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,” Washington stated, acknowledging the impact of the injury on Sandoval’s promising season.
At 27 years old, Sandoval was the Angels’ opening-day starter and has played six seasons in the major leagues. This season, he held a 2-8 record with a 5.08 ERA in 16 games. Throughout his career, he boasts a 19-45 record with a 4.01 ERA. This year, Sandoval is earning a salary of $5,025,000 and remains eligible for salary arbitration through the 2024 and 2025 seasons. He could potentially become a free agent after the 2026 season.
The timing of the injury couldn't be worse for Sandoval, who was just beginning to find his stride. As he exited the match after issuing a third-inning walk to Ohtani, the severity of the injury cast a shadow over an already challenging season for the Angels. Sandoval’s absence will undoubtedly require the Angels to make significant adjustments to their pitching roster as they navigate the remainder of the season without one of their key starters.
The road to recovery for Sandoval will be long and arduous, but his resolve to return stronger offers a glimmer of hope. For now, the Angels and their fans will have to hold on to the promise of a future where Sandoval can once again take the mound and compete at the highest level.