Trending Now - Giants' Hayden Birdsong to Have Tommy John Surgery

WHO:

Hayden Birdsong, 24, pitcher for the San Francisco Giants

Dr. Keith Meister, surgeon based in Dallas

Tony Vitello, manager of the Giants

WHAT:

Birdsong will undergo Tommy John surgery to repair a right forearm strain and ulnar collateral ligament sprain in his throwing elbow.

The surgery is expected to have a recovery period of 12-16 months, meaning Birdsong will likely miss the entire 2026 season and part of the 2027 season.

Birdsong had a 4-4 record with a 4.80 ERA in 2025, making 21 appearances, including 10 starts, and striking out 68 batters over 65 2/3 innings.

Birdsong allowed eight runs over 2 1/3 innings in three Cactus League appearances in 2026.

WHERE:

Surgery will be performed in Dallas, Texas.

Birdsong's injury occurred during a Cactus League game against the Guardians in Scottsdale, Arizona.

WHEN:

The surgery is scheduled for the week of March 20th, 2026.

Birdsong felt a "pop, like a rip" in his elbow on March 10th, 2026.

WHY:

Birdsong opted for surgery after being diagnosed with a Grade 2 forearm strain and UCL sprain, following a second opinion from Dr. Meister.

HOW:

Birdsong underwent an MRI exam that revealed the extent of his injury before deciding on surgery.

(UPDATED March 20, 2026 01:24 UTC)

San Francisco Giants pitcher Hayden Birdsong will undergo Tommy John surgery this week in Dallas to repair a right forearm strain and ulnar collateral ligament sprain in his throwing elbow. The 24-year-old, who had a record of four wins and four losses with a 4.80 ERA last season, felt a "pop, like a rip" in his elbow during a Cactus League game on March 10 and will likely miss the entire 2026 season and part of 2027 due to a recovery period of 12 to 16 months. Birdsong sought a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister after an MRI exam confirmed the severity of his injury.