Giants' Birdsong sidelined for 2026 after Tommy John surgery
San Francisco Giants right-hander Hayden Birdsong will miss the 2026 season after opting for Tommy John surgery to repair a right elbow UCL injury. Surgeon Keith Meister will perform the procedure next week, with a typical 12-16 month recovery. Birdsong felt a pop in spring and an MRI showed a Grade 2 UCL sprain and forearm strain, prompting the decision to undergo surgery. His absence tightens the Giants’ pitching depth in the minors and could affect future call-ups, though Opening Day plans remain largely intact; candidates like Carson Whisenhunt, Carson Seymour, Blade Tidwell and Tristan Beck could contribute later in the year.
