Mets Roster Hopeful Needs Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Surgery

Robert Stock faces lengthy absence after diagnosis of rare arterial form of the condition

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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New York Mets roster hopeful Robert Stock has been recommended for thoracic outlet syndrome surgery, likely sidelining him for most of the 2026 season. Stock, who signed a minor league deal with the Mets this offseason, reported shoulder discomfort after a strong outing for Team Israel in the World Baseball Classic. Doctors determined he has the rare arterial form of TOS, which can cause hand numbness and even finger gangrene.

Why it matters

Thoracic outlet syndrome has derailed the careers of several MLB pitchers in recent years, including Stephen Strasburg and Zack Wheeler. While some have returned to form after the surgery, others have struggled to regain their previous velocity and command. The Mets will need to rely on their bullpen depth to fill the void left by Stock's lengthy absence.

The details

Stock, 36, signed a minor league deal with the Mets this offseason after spending 2025 in the Boston Red Sox organization. He impressed in limited spring training action, tossing three scoreless innings for the Mets and three more for Team Israel. However, the shoulder discomfort he reported following his outing against the Marlins led to the TOS diagnosis. Doctors told Stock he has the 'bad' arterial form of the condition, which is less common than the neurogenic form that has impacted other pitchers.

  • On March 8, 2026, Stock told reporters he was recommended for thoracic outlet syndrome surgery.
  • Stock said he could possibly return by the end of the 2026 season, though the typical recovery period for a pitcher is about nine to 10 months.

The players

Robert Stock

A 36-year-old right-handed pitcher who signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets this offseason and was in camp as a non-roster invitee before joining Team Israel for the World Baseball Classic.

Stephen Strasburg

A former Washington Nationals ace whose career was derailed by neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome.

Zack Wheeler

The Philadelphia Phillies ace who was sidelined late last year by venous thoracic outlet syndrome.

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What they’re saying

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— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.