5 Dodgers pitchers that had Tommy John or elbow surgery in the last two years ft. Dustin May, Walker Buehler, Tony Gonsolin, and more
Pitching injuries have become a huge concern for the Los Angeles Dodgers over the last few years. Whether it has been Tommy John or another elbow surgery, frontline starters and relief pitchers have not been safe.
Such injuries have even affected the club's minor league system, as top pitching prospect River Ryan will be undergoing Tommy John surgery. It was a huge blow for the youngster as he was developing well.
This is a trend the team cannot continue if they want to compete for World Series titles. So, today we look at five pitchers who have UCL problems within the last two years.
5 Dodgers pitchers who have undergone elbow surgery in the last two years
#5 - River Ryan
The Dodgers announced on Tuesday that top pitching prospect River Ryan will undergo Tommy John surgery. Being so late into the season, he will miss the rest of 2024 and quite possibly all of 2025 as well.
Ryan will require a full ligament replacement, which holds a longer rehab time. With how high his ceiling could be, the front office may take their time getting him back on the mound.
#4 - Kyle Hurt
Kyle Hurt underwent Tommy John surgery in late July and, like Ryan, could miss all of next season. He came over to LA via the Miami Marlins during the Dylan Floro trade during the 2021 season.
#3 - Emmet Sheehan
In May, the Dodgers announced that right-handed pitcher Emmet Sheehan had undergone Tommy John surgery. He got the hybrid procedure with the internal brace, which should help speed up his rehab process.
#2 - Walker Buehler
Walker Buehler underwent Tommy John during the 2022 season after leaving a game against the San Francisco Giants in June. He tried to return for the 2023 postseason but had a setback during his rehab.
He has returned this season but returned to the IL with a hip injury. However, he is nearing his return, per manager Dave Roberts.
#1 - Dustin May
Dustin May underwent Tommy John surgery in May of 2021. He returned late during the 2022 season before heading back to the IL with back tightness in September.
During the 2023 season, he had more troubles with his UCL and went in for a Tommy John revision. He missed the rest of the 2023 season and is currently on the IL after undergoing surgery for an esophageal tear.