Cincinnati Reds pitcher Carson Spiers will undergo Tommy John surgery, which will sideline him for the remainder of the 2025 season and most likely all of 2026. The relief pitcher, who has not appeared in a game since April because of shoulder problems, was diagnosed with an injury to his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) after his minor league rehab was paused due to biceps soreness. Given the typical recovery timeline for this procedure, Spiers is expected to miss at least a full season and a half, with a potential return late in the 2027 season.

Injury Details and Career Context for Spiers

Spiers, an undrafted free agent, has struggled with health issues this year, pitching only 13.1 innings spread across three appearances in the 2025 season. His career statistics include a 5.69 earned run average (ERA) over 117 major league innings. Despite being on the injured list, he has continued to accumulate Major League service time during his recovery period.

Team Implications and Recovery Process

With Spiers sidelined, the Cincinnati Reds will need to adjust their pitching rotation and seek alternative options to maintain depth on the mound. His progress will be carefully followed throughout the recovery process after surgery to evaluate his readiness for a potential return. This surgery represents a significant setback for Spiers and the organization, illustrating the ongoing challenges injuries cause in professional baseball.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Spiers and the Reds

The lengthy recovery associated with Tommy John surgery means Spiers will likely miss the full 2026 season, with only a slim chance of returning late that year. For the Reds, this loss requires strategic planning to cover his absence while supporting his rehabilitation. Spiers’ focus will be on regaining strength and functionality in his elbow, aiming for a comeback that could restore his place in the pitching staff by 2027.