When a top pitcher goes on the injured list with an elbow issue, fans and fantasy owners alike want to know what it means for the rest of the season and beyond. Below you'll find clear answers to common questions about elbow injuries, Tommy John surgery, and how teams navigate a key starter going down. If you’re wondering about impact, recovery, and options, these FAQs cover the essentials from the latest Blue Jays update.
Elbow injuries can suspend a pitcher’s season, especially when inflammation or stress fractures are involved. For Berríos, the elbow issues led to an IL stint and a decision toward Tommy John surgery, which typically involves a lengthy rehab. The impact on future performance depends on the success of the procedure, the quality of rehabilitation, and how the pitcher regains velocity, control, and confidence. Teams weigh short-term unavailable value against long-term health when mapping a pitcher’s trajectory.
Tommy John surgery repairs a damaged ulnar collateral ligament. Recovery generally starts with a long period of rest, followed by a structured throwing program. Most pitchers take about 12–18 months to return to game action, with some returning later depending on rehab progress and team needs. The process focuses on regaining arm strength, mechanics, and confidence to handle major-league workloads.
Losing a top starter like Berríos reduces rotation depth and can force the team to lean on younger arms or bullpen usage. The immediate effect is usually a shift in rotation planning and increased reliance on depth, which can affect win chances. However, teams often adapt with bullpen assignments, spot starts, and strategic rest for other starters. The season’s outcome will hinge on how quickly and effectively the rotation stabilizes and how hitters compensate during the absence.
Teams typically explore several paths: promote a pitching prospect from the minors, acquire a veteran to fill innings, or adjust the rotation with spot starts and extended relief roles. They may also rely on bullpen depth, rework the schedule to manage workload, and lean on rehab starts to reintroduce the pitcher gradually. In some cases, teams still pursue upgrades at the trade deadline if playoff chances remain viable.
The immediate focus is the surgical decision and a clear rehab plan. If Tommy John surgery is performed, expect a plan that targets a gradual return over the next 12–18 months. Managerial statements emphasize a full recovery, with the understanding that ligament damage is assessed during the procedure. Updates will come as the team evaluates progress and adjusts the rotation accordingly.
Yes. Teams typically lean on internal options—young pitchers in the farm system or bullpen arms—to fill innings. They may also explore external acquisitions or trades, depending on league standings and budget. Depth charts and minor-league call-ups become critical when a frontline starter is sidelined, and the team will monitor who’s ready to contribute in the immediate and long term.
José Berríos underwent a full Tommy John surgery on his right elbow Wednesday, sidelining the veteran Toronto Blue Jays starter well into the 2027 season.