Shohei Ohtani's UCL Tear: Impact on Angels and Free Agency

Los Angeles Angels' Shohei Ohtani has been diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right throwing elbow, ruling him out for the rest of the season and potentially requiring a second Tommy John surgery. The severity of the tear and the need for surgery will be determined after a second opinion. Recovery time for Tommy John surgery is typically 12-18 months, and there is no guarantee Ohtani will return to his pre-surgery form. This injury may impact Ohtani's future value and contract negotiations, but he remains a highly talented player and could potentially transition to an outfielder if pitching setbacks occur.