In baseball, nothing strikes fear into the hearts of players and fans quite like the words "Tommy John surgery." It's become a game-changer in the MLB, where pitcher injuries have skyrocketed, especially those involving a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the elbow. While Tommy John surgery can save careers, it also means a long road to recovery, keeping players off the field for 12 to 18 months.
The 2024 season has been no stranger to this trend, with stars like Spencer Strider and Shane Bieber facing season-ending elbow injuries in the first month alone. According to a database by former FanGraphs analyst Jon Roegele, 10 major league pitchers have already undergone Tommy John surgery, with more on the injured list hoping to avoid the same fate.
"It's unfortunate," remarked Orioles ace Corbin Burnes, noting the alarming rate of injuries. Many in the league, including Burnes, believe there's a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. While MLB denies any correlation with the pitch clock, the numbers speak for themselves. Pitcher injuries have spiked in the last two years, leaving players and fans alike concerned.
The Orioles have been hit hard by this trend. Kyle Bradish, their Game 1 starter in the AL Division Series last season, suffered a partially torn UCL and underwent treatments to return this season. Left-hander John Means is also making a comeback after elbow surgery, while right-hander Tyler Wells recently joined the injured list with elbow inflammation.
Pitcher injuries have become one of baseball's biggest challenges, and there's no easy fix in sight. MLB's pitch clock has come under scrutiny, with some players suggesting that pitchers should have the option to call a timeout, similar to batters. However, opinions are divided on what exactly needs to change.
The increase in arm injuries has led to various theories. Some, like Dodgers' Tyler Glasnow, blame the crackdown on foreign substances, forcing pitchers to grip the ball harder. Dr. James Andrews, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, believes that the emphasis on velocity from an early age is causing premature arm deterioration.
Despite the debate, MLB continues to reward pitchers who can throw the fastest. Front offices value speed because it leads to more strikeouts, which are crucial for pitchers. Orioles GM Mike Elias acknowledges this shift in pitching dynamics and expects ongoing discussions to address the issue.
Statcast data reveals a concerning trend. Pitchers throwing over 96 mph are more prone to injuries, with several currently on the injured list or recovering from Tommy John surgery. Despite this, pitchers like Grayson Rodriguez refuse to dial back their velocity, as it's a key part of their success.
For players at all levels, velocity is a prized asset. Young prospects stand out with their speed, while veterans aim to maintain it for lucrative contracts. However, some, like Orioles' Cole Irvin, believe there should be more emphasis on good mechanics and control rather than just speed.
In the end, the debate over pitcher injuries in baseball continues. While the causes may vary, one thing is clear: finding a solution will require careful consideration and perhaps a shift in how the game is played.
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