URGENT UPDATE: San Diego Padres veteran pitcher Yu Darvish has undergone Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) repair surgery on his right elbow and will miss the entire 2026 season. Darvish announced the news earlier today on social media, revealing that the surgery took place last Wednesday and that he is currently using an internal brace to aid his recovery.
In a heartfelt message shared on X, Darvish stated, “I will be working hard on my rehab to be able to throw a ball comfortably again.” His determination underscores the challenge ahead, as the typical recovery timeline for UCL surgery ranges from 12 to 15 months, according to the Padres.
This setback is significant for the Padres and fans alike. At 39 years old, Darvish was a key player for San Diego last season, finishing with a record of 5-5 and a 5.38 ERA. Now, his absence will leave a noticeable gap in the team’s pitching lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Financially, Darvish has three years remaining on his contract, which includes just under $50 million. This contract extension, signed in December 2020, had positioned him as a cornerstone of the Padres’ pitching strategy.
The Padres organization has expressed their full support for Darvish during this recovery process. Team officials have emphasized the importance of taking the necessary time to heal properly, ensuring he returns to the field at peak performance.
As this story develops, Padres fans are left wondering how the team will adjust their roster in light of this unexpected surgery. The upcoming free agency period and potential trades may become focal points as the organization seeks to fill the void left by Darvish’s absence.
Stay tuned for additional updates on Yu Darvish’s recovery and the Padres’ plans for the 2026 season as more information becomes available.
