Giants address string of pitcher injuries involving Tommy John surgery

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 12:00 PM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Giants address string of pitcher injuries involving Tommy John surgery
Summary

The San Francisco Giants have experienced a series of UCL injuries impacting several young pitchers, including Carson Whisenhunt, Randy Rodriguez, Hayden Birdsong, and Trevor McDonald. President of baseball operations Buster Posey confirmed the club is reviewing its medical and training protocols to ensure no internal factors are contributing to the trend. While these injuries have depleted the pitching staff during a difficult season, the club retains confidence in its existing medical department. Industry-wide data suggests nearly 40% of active big-league pitchers have undergone Tommy John surgery, with experts pointing to increased amateur pitch volume and modern throwing mechanics as primary contributors. Rodriguez and Birdsong expect to return to action in the spring, while McDonald and Whisenhunt are sidelined until 2028. The team continues to assess whether any adjustments to pitcher development or usage are necessary.

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By the Numbers
  • Carson Whisenhunt is the latest Giants pitcher scheduled for Tommy John surgery.
  • Randy Rodriguez, Hayden Birdsong, and Trevor McDonald also recently suffered UCL injuries.
  • Nearly 40% of active major league pitchers have undergone Tommy John surgery.
  • Buster Posey stated the team is reviewing internal processes while expressing trust in the medical staff.
  • Birdsong and Rodriguez are expected to return to the mound by next spring.
Latest Updates
  • 12:00 PMYahoo SportsGiants' Tommy John outbreak raises hard questions in an era of endangered arms
What they're saying
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Nearly 40% of active big-league pitchers have had Tommy John surgery, and the Giants seem to have lined all theirs up at once. "I think you have to look at it," Buster Posey said.

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