The Minnesota Twins announced on Tuesday that right-handed pitcher Pablo López has suffered a significant tear to the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow during spring training. This injury has led the team to schedule a second medical evaluation, and surgery is currently being seriously considered as the next step for López’s recovery. The development is particularly concerning given López’s recent struggles with injuries and the timing just before the regular season.
Initially, López felt discomfort in his elbow while throwing during a bullpen session, prompting the Twins to take precautionary imaging. Unfortunately, the results revealed a more serious issue than first anticipated. At 29 years old, López has endured previous setbacks, including missing a substantial portion of the 2025 season because of a Grade 2 strain in his teres major muscle. Despite those challenges, former Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey noted that López would have been utilized in the postseason had the team been in contention.
Pitching Rotation Adjustments Ahead of Opening Day
With López’s potential surgery and absence, the Twins are expected to adjust their pitching rotation for the start of the season. Joe Ryan is likely to be named the Opening Day starter, followed by Bailey Ober and Simeon Woods Richardson. The Twins also have several other right-handed pitchers, including David Festa, Zebby Matthews, Taj Bradley, and Mick Abel, as well as left-hander Connor Prielipp, who could fill the remaining rotation spots, depending on how the pitching roster shapes up during spring training.
New York Mets Take Cautious Approach with Luis Robert Jr.’s Early Training
The New York Mets are adopting a careful strategy regarding outfielder Luis Robert Jr.’s participation in early spring training activities. Manager Carlos Mendoza has decided not to play Robert immediately, prioritizing his health and conditioning to ensure he is fully prepared for the regular season. This approach mirrors the team’s plan for other key players such as Francisco Alvarez and Jorge Polanco, who are also being managed to build strength before taking part in games.
Robert joined the Mets during the offseason via a trade with the Chicago White Sox, which sent Luisangel Acuña and Truman Pauley to Chicago. Before his season was cut short in late August, Robert played 110 games, posting a batting line of .223/.297/.364, along with 14 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 33 stolen bases. The Mets’ cautious management reflects their desire to maximize Robert’s availability and performance throughout the upcoming season.
Implications of Injuries on Team Prospects and Season Outlook
Pablo López’s elbow injury represents a major setback for the Twins, potentially sidelining a key member of their pitching staff and forcing the team to rely on younger or less experienced pitchers for critical roles. This development may affect the Twins’ competitiveness early in the season and places additional pressure on pitchers like Joe Ryan, Bailey Ober, and Simeon Woods Richardson to deliver consistently. The injury also raises questions about López’s long-term durability and readiness to return to form.
Meanwhile, the Mets’ decision to restrain Luis Robert Jr. during early spring training signals their intent to safeguard his health after a limited but impactful season last year. Carefully managing Robert’s workload is aimed at ensuring he can contribute effectively over a full campaign without recurring issues. Both teams are clearly prioritizing player wellness as they prepare for the challenges of the 2026 baseball season.
Pablo López Diagnosed With UCL Tear https://t.co/y0fTllHqge pic.twitter.com/QrOtpI0xav
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) February 17, 2026
UPDATE
In an effort to keep Luis Robert Jr. healthy, the Mets will not be playing him in games out of the gate, per Mets manager Carlos Mendoza
Francisco Alvarez, Brett Baty and Jorge Polanco will also be held out of games early on. pic.twitter.com/EqwXizhufS
— SleeperMets (@SleeperMets) February 17, 2026
