Red Sox Pitcher Nittoli Considering Season-Ending Elbow Surgery

Reliever faces potential Tommy John or internal brace procedure after injury during Spring Training

Mar. 10, 2026 at 7:07am

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Boston Red Sox reliever Vinny Nittoli is reportedly considering season-ending elbow surgery, either Tommy John or an internal brace procedure, after experiencing pain in his last outing. The team has shut down Nittoli as they await the results of his MRI to determine the best course of treatment for the ligament damage in his elbow.

Why it matters

Losing Nittoli for an extended period would be a significant blow to the Red Sox pitching staff, which is always in need of reliable arms. Even a minor elbow injury can sideline a pitcher for a year or more, so this development could have major implications for Boston's roster and bullpen depth heading into the regular season.

The details

According to reports, Nittoli experienced elbow discomfort during his last appearance on Saturday against the Minnesota Twins. The Red Sox have since shut him down as they await the results of an MRI he underwent on Tuesday. Nittoli is now weighing his options, which include either Tommy John surgery or an internal brace procedure, both of which would likely sideline him for the entire 2026 season.

  • Nittoli experienced elbow pain during his last outing on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • Nittoli underwent an MRI on Tuesday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Vinny Nittoli

A relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox who is facing a potential season-ending elbow injury.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox.

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What they’re saying

“Vinny Nittoli experienced elbow pain during his last outing on Saturday against the Minnesota Twins and has been shut down, Alex Cora said on Wednesday. Nittoli underwent an MRI on Tuesday but the club is still awaiting the results.”

— Alex Cora, Manager, Boston Red Sox

“Red Sox reliever Vinny Nittoli is weighing Tommy John or internal brace surgery, reports Tim Healey of The Boston Globe. The righty has been diagnosed with ligament damage in his elbow and is seemingly headed for a season-ending operation.”

— Anthony Franco, Reporter, MLB Trade Rumors

What’s next

The Red Sox are awaiting the results of Nittoli's MRI to determine the extent of the injury and the best course of treatment, which could include either Tommy John surgery or an internal brace procedure. Either option would likely sideline Nittoli for the entire 2026 season.

The takeaway

This injury to Vinny Nittoli is a significant setback for the Red Sox pitching staff, which was already in need of reliable arms. Losing Nittoli for the season would be a major blow, highlighting the fragility of pitchers' elbows and the importance of depth in a team's bullpen.