San Francisco Giants pitcher Hayden Birdsong will undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery to repair a right forearm strain and ulnar collateral ligament sprain. The Giants announced the news from Scottsdale, Ariz., on Thursday, with the procedure set for next week in Dallas.
Hayden Birdsong, 24, experienced the injury during his Cactus League outing against the Guardians on March 10. He described feeling “a pop, like a rip,” in his right elbow after throwing a curveball on the penultimate pitch. An MRI revealed a Grade 2 forearm strain and UCL sprain. After seeking a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister, Birdsong opted for surgery rather than rehabilitation. The operation, to be performed by Meister in Dallas, carries a typical recovery of 12-16 months, likely sidelining Birdsong until midseason 2026 and causing him to miss the entire campaign, according to team projections. Giants manager Tony Vitello commented on the decision, saying, “I think clarity is a positive. He's got convicted thoughts... It’s hard to use the phrase, 'you're happy for him based on the circumstances,' but it is nice after a few days of muddy waters to have some clarity.” Birdsong had struggled this spring, allowing eight runs over 2 1/3 innings in three appearances, including one start. Despite not being slated for the Opening Day rotation, he was positioned for significant innings as a starter or reliever. His electric stuff was evident, topping out at 99.6 mph in that final outing. Vitello added, “He was really sharp last time out... you can come back stronger.” To fill the depth gap, the Giants plan to rely on prospects like Trevor McDonald (No. 16), Carson Whisenhunt (No. 12), Blade Tidwell (No. 10) and Carson Seymour.
