sports
Minnesota Twins Pitcher Mick Abel Recommended for Elbow Surgery
Right-hander Mick Abel will undergo arthroscopic elbow surgery after reporting soreness following a bullpen session. The Twins announced the decision on June 24, 2026, more than two months after he first went on the injured list.
ESPNAudio version
Tap play to generate a narrated version.
Developing·Limited corroboration so far. This page will refresh as more sources emerge.
Minnesota Twins right-hander Mick Abel has been recommended for arthroscopic elbow surgery after a recent setback in his recovery from elbow inflammation, ESPN reported. The team announced the decision on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, following an assessment by orthopedic specialist Dr. Keith Meister.
The procedure will take place more than two months after Abel was placed on the injured list. Abel had been scheduled to rejoin the rotation on Sunday after completing two rehab starts with Triple-A St. Paul.
He reported soreness after a bullpen session on Friday and was shut down from throwing, prompting the new recommendation. The timetable for his return will not be set until after the surgery. The 24-year-old Abel posted a 3.98 ERA in four appearances this season, including 14 consecutive scoreless innings, before elbow inflammation ended his start on April 14.
He was acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies along with minor league catcher Eduardo Tait the day before last season's trade deadline in exchange for closer Jhoan Duran. Minnesota's pitching staff has faced multiple injuries. Left-hander Pablo López underwent elbow surgery and is out for the 2026 season.
Right-hander Bailey Ober has been sidelined for three weeks with elbow inflammation and is not expected back until after the All-Star break. Left-hander Kendry Rojas started on Tuesday, June 23, and was optioned to Triple-A before Wednesday's game.
