Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara has announced that he will miss the entire 2024 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. The news was shared by Alcantara himself on his Instagram account, disappointing fans who were hoping to see him on the mound next year.
Recovery from Tommy John surgery typically takes around 12 months, although pitchers are usually given closer to 14 months to ensure they are fully healed and ready for competition. Based on this timetable, Alcantara is expected to be back in full strength in time for spring training in 2025.
Expressing his sadness for the Marlins fans who supported him and the team during their playoff push this year, Alcantara has vowed to continue being a presence around the team. Despite his absence from the field, he plans to provide support and be there for his teammates.
The 28-year-old pitcher’s injury dates back to September 3 when he was sidelined with a strained flexor. Further evaluation revealed a sprained ulnar collateral ligament, a ligament associated with Tommy John surgery. It was a blow for Alcantara, who had been having a successful season with a 4.14 ERA and a 3.15 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 28 starts.
Alcantara’s contributions to the Marlins were highly valued, with an estimated 3.4 Wins Above Replacement. He had been on track for a third consecutive season of pitching over 200 innings before the injury occurred.
This news comes after the Marlins were eliminated from the postseason, losing both games of their Wild Card Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Alcantara’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team, as they now look towards the future without one of their star pitchers.
As fans eagerly await Alcantara’s return, the Marlins will have to find a way to fill the void left by his absence during the 2024 season.
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