Nathan Eovaldi Undergoes Urgent Surgery, Set for 2026 Return

BREAKING: Texas Rangers right-hander Nathan Eovaldi has undergone surgery for a sports hernia, a source confirmed to ESPN just moments ago. The procedure took place in Phoenix and Eovaldi is expected to make a full recovery in approximately four weeks, ensuring he will be ready for the start of the 2026 season.
This urgent update comes on the heels of Eovaldi’s impressive performance this past season, where he achieved an 11-3 record with a career-best 1.73 ERA over 22 starts. His contributions were vital in helping the Rangers secure the best team ERA in Major League Baseball at 3.47.
In late August, Eovaldi was sidelined due to a rotator cuff strain, but recent scans indicated significant healing progress, allowing him to move forward with the surgery. The 35-year-old pitcher, who will turn 36 in February, has been a cornerstone for the Rangers, marking his third consecutive season with at least 11 wins since joining the team.
Despite missing most of June with elbow inflammation and not being selected for the American League All-Star team, Eovaldi still received a $100,000 All-Star bonus as part of his contract, reflecting the team’s faith in his abilities. He signed a lucrative $75 million contract in December that extends through 2027.
Eovaldi, with a career record of 102-84 and a 3.84 ERA over 14 seasons, has a rich history in Major League Baseball, including World Series victories with the Boston Red Sox in 2018 and the Texas Rangers in 2023. He began his career with the Los Angeles Dodgers and has played for several teams, including the Marlins, Yankees, Rays, and Red Sox.
The urgency surrounding Eovaldi’s surgery cannot be overstated. As teams prepare for the upcoming season, Eovaldi’s swift recovery will be pivotal for the Rangers as they aim to build on their recent success.
Stay tuned for more updates on Nathan Eovaldi’s recovery and the implications for the Texas Rangers as the 2026 season approaches.