Yu Darvish Has UCL Surgery, Will Miss 2026 Season

[Brandon Glick]

There's been a lot of discourse surrounding Yu Darvish following his late-season struggles.

Now, those conversations can be put to rest. The Japanese veteran reportedly underwent successful Ulnar Collateral Ligament repair surgery with an internal brace on his right elbow, which will force him to miss the entirety of next year.

While one step short of full-blown Tommy John surgery, this is still a serious elbow repair for a pitcher with more than 1,700 innings on his arm in just the regular season, let alone the playoffs and NPB. Darvish, 39, had the worst season of his career in 2025, authoring a 5.38 ERA in 72.0 innings.

He has three years and $46 million remaining on his current deal. Returning from this injury to be an effective starter at age 40 and 41 would be one of the greatest miracles in Padres history.

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