Orioles third baseman Jordan Westburg has been diagnosed with a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, which could potentially sideline him for a significant portion of the 2026 season. This diagnosis comes as a setback for the young player, who has been a well-rounded and productive force on the field since his debut in 2023. But here's where it gets controversial: while surgery is an option, Westburg is opting for a more conservative approach with a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, hoping to avoid the need for a Tommy John procedure that could sideline him for the entire year.
Westburg's decision to avoid surgery is not without precedent. Bryce Harper, for instance, underwent Tommy John surgery in November 2022 and was back on the field as a designated hitter about five and a half months later. Trevor Story, on the other hand, had an internal brace procedure and returned to the field as a shortstop seven months after his injury. However, every injury is different, and the extent of Westburg's tear is still unknown.
Given the timing of the injury, it makes sense that Westburg would opt for an injection, rest, and rehab rather than immediate surgery. The recovery timetable for position players coming back from UCL surgery is shorter than for pitchers, but it still tends to take at least six months just to return as a designated hitter. If Westburg undergoes surgery right now, there's a strong possibility that he could miss the entirety of the 2026 campaign.
Westburg's injury is a critical loss for the Orioles, who will already be without second baseman Jackson Holliday on Opening Day due to a recent surgery to address a hamate fracture. With Westburg and Holliday both sidelined, the Orioles' Opening Day infield will look quite different than expected. Former top prospect Coby Mayo will likely open the season at third base in place of Westburg, while trade acquisition Blaze Alexander can handle third base if Mayo struggles. Utilityman Jeremiah Jackson could log time at either position.
It's also feasible that the Orioles could bring in some veteran infield depth. Old friends Ramón Urías, Jose Iglesias, and Emmanuel Rivera remain unsigned, as do veteran utility options like Luis Urías (Ramon's younger brother) and Jon Berti. Spring training always leads to the placement of a few dozen players on waivers, as non-roster veterans or prospects make their clubs and are selected to the 40-man roster with their current team. Some of those non-roster vets who don't make the cut with their current club could opt out or be granted their release later in camp, which could give Baltimore other options to consider.
Westburg's injury is a stark reminder of the fragility of professional athletes and the importance of proper rest and recovery. While surgery is often the go-to solution for serious injuries, it's not always the best option. In Westburg's case, the PRP injection offers a chance for a quicker recovery and a return to the field, even if it's not the full season. As the Orioles navigate this setback, they must also consider the long-term health and well-being of their players, ensuring that they are given the time and resources they need to recover fully and safely.
