Twins’ Pablo López Diagnosed With Significant UCL Tear, Likely Out for 2026

Pablo López has been diagnosed with a significant tear in his right ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), the Minnesota Twins announced (February 17, 2026). An MRI confirmed the injury after López reported elbow soreness during his first live throwing session on February 16—he ended the session early after just two pitches in the third inning. General manager Jeremy Zoll said Tommy John surgery is "very much on the table"; López is seeking a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister but is expected to miss the entire 2026 season if he undergoes the procedure.

Background

López, 29 (turns 30 March 7), has been the Twins’ Opening Day starter for the past three seasons and was a 2023 All-Star. He was limited to 75⅔ innings in 2025 due to shoulder and forearm injuries. This would be his second Tommy John surgery—he had the first early in his minor league career (2013). He had been preparing to pitch for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic.

Rotation impact

Joe Ryan is now in line to be Opening Day starter, with Bailey Ober expected to follow. López’s loss is a major blow to Minnesota’s rotation depth.

What It Means for AthX

López’s share price will reflect a full season of absence; dynamic pricing will factor in zero innings until he returns (likely Opening Day 2027 if he has surgery). Other Twins starters—Ryan, Ober, and any additions—will see higher projected workload and may see a short-term value bump. Dividend-focused holders should treat López as out for 2026. Browse the marketplace to see how rotation and injury news affect player values on AthX. *Sources: MLB Trade Rumors, ESPN, The Athletic, MLB.com, NY Post, Newsday, Detroit News. Fact-checked February 20, 2026.*