Orioles' Jordan Westburg to Miss Start of Season with Partial UCL Tear

Third baseman faces months-long recovery after elbow injury diagnosis

Feb. 20, 2026 at 9:02pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Baltimore Orioles third baseman Jordan Westburg will miss the start of the 2026 season due to a partial tear in his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow. Orioles manager Mike Elias said Westburg will receive a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and attempt to rehab the injury, but he is expected to be sidelined for at least March and April.

Why it matters

Westburg was expected to be a key part of the Orioles' lineup this season after a promising rookie campaign in 2025. His extended absence is a significant blow to the team's plans and will force them to adjust their roster and lineup in his absence.

The details

Elias said the elbow issue had been chronic for Westburg, though it recently flared up to the point that further testing revealed the partial UCL tear. Westburg will receive the PRP injection and attempt to rehab the injury, but Elias acknowledged the recovery timeline is uncertain beyond the initial 1-2 month absence.

  • On February 20, 2026, Orioles manager Mike Elias announced Westburg's injury and recovery timeline.
  • Westburg is expected to miss at least March and April of the 2026 season.

The players

Jordan Westburg

Baltimore Orioles third baseman who is set to miss the start of the 2026 season due to a partial UCL tear in his right elbow.

Mike Elias

Baltimore Orioles manager who provided the update on Westburg's injury and recovery timeline.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Jordan's going to receive a PRP injection today in California . and then come back to camp, and we will attempt to rehab the injury with PRP and strengthening and time.”

— Mike Elias, Orioles Manager

“After that, it's too soon to get more specific with how much time he's going to miss, but he's going to start the season on the aisle.”

— Mike Elias, Orioles Manager

What’s next

The Orioles will monitor Westburg's recovery progress and provide updates on his potential return timeline as he undergoes treatment and rehabilitation.

The takeaway

Westburg's partial UCL tear is a significant setback for the Orioles, who were counting on the young third baseman to be a key part of their lineup this season. The team will need to find creative ways to fill the void during his extended absence, testing their depth and resilience early in the year.