Twins Pitcher Pablo López Out for Season with UCL Tear

Significant injury likely requires surgery, according to Twins GM

Feb. 20, 2026 at 1:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Minnesota Twins right-hander Pablo López has a significant tear in his right elbow's ulnar collateral ligament, general manager Jeremy Zoll announced on Tuesday. Zoll said López would likely need surgery that would cost him the entire 2026 season.

Why it matters

López has been the Twins' opening day starter for the past three seasons and was considered a key part of their pitching rotation. His extended absence will be a major blow to the team's playoff hopes, as they look to build on their 2025 campaign.

The details

López, who turns 30 next month, ended a bullpen session early on Monday due to what manager Derek Shelton called 'a little bit of elbow soreness.' Further examination revealed the significant UCL tear. The Twins say López will get a second opinion, but the initial diagnosis indicates he will likely need season-ending surgery.

  • On February 16, 2026, López ended a bullpen session early due to elbow soreness.
  • On February 17, 2026, Twins GM Jeremy Zoll announced López's significant UCL tear and likely season-ending surgery.

The players

Pablo López

A 29-year-old right-handed pitcher who has been the opening day starter for the Minnesota Twins for the past three seasons.

Jeremy Zoll

The general manager of the Minnesota Twins.

Derek Shelton

The manager of the Minnesota Twins.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The Twins say López will get a second opinion, but the initial diagnosis indicates he will likely need season-ending surgery.

The takeaway

This significant injury to one of the Twins' top pitchers is a major setback for the team as they look to build on their 2025 campaign and make a playoff push. The Twins will need to find a way to replace López's production in the starting rotation while he recovers from surgery.