Red Sox' Patrick Sandoval Throws Live BP Session After Long Rehab

The left-hander is eager to compete for a spot in the Red Sox rotation after missing the 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery.

Feb. 13, 2026 at 5:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Red Sox pitcher Patrick Sandoval was excited to throw 15 pitches in a live batting practice session on Friday, his first time on a major league mound since May 2024. Sandoval underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2024 and missed the entire 2025 season due to setbacks in his recovery. Though he faces an uphill battle to win a spot in the crowded Red Sox rotation, Sandoval is grateful to be back on the field and competing again.

Why it matters

Sandoval's return to the mound is a significant milestone in his recovery from a serious elbow injury. After missing an entire season, he is looking to regain his form and earn a role on the Red Sox pitching staff, which has a lot of depth and competition for starting spots.

The details

Sandoval threw around 15 pitches in the live BP session, which he described as "a lot of fun." Red Sox manager Alex Cora was simply happy to see Sandoval back on the mound. Sandoval acknowledged the long, difficult rehab process he's been through, saying it has "humbled" him. He's unsure of what his role will be, whether as a starter or in a bulk relief role, but is just focused on competing for a spot on the Opening Day roster.

  • Sandoval underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2024.
  • Sandoval missed the entire 2025 season due to setbacks in his recovery.
  • Sandoval threw 15 pitches in a live BP session on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Patrick Sandoval

A left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who is attempting to make a comeback after missing the 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was a lot of fun.”

— Patrick Sandoval

“But I was just happy that he was out there.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox Manager

What’s next

Sandoval will continue alternating between bullpen sessions and live batting practice as he works his way back to Grapefruit League game action.

The takeaway

Sandoval's return to the mound is an important step in his recovery, but he faces a crowded field of pitchers competing for spots in the Red Sox rotation. His perseverance through a long rehab process has humbled him, and he's focused on simply earning a role on the team however he can.