Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Jordan Westburg underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow on May 15, 2026, and will miss the entire 2026 season. The 27-year-old infielder suffered a partial tear of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) during spring training. He initially received a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection in February as a conservative treatment option but was shut down in early May after experiencing continued discomfort when intensifying his throwing progression. Orioles GM Mike Elias stated that Westburg's return as a full player in early 2027 is "very much in play." This is the latest in a series of injuries plaguing Westburg's career, including a sore oblique in spring training and limited availability (85 games) in 2025 due to hamstring, finger, and ankle injuries.
Strengths
- + All-Star caliber player (2024)
- + Team and organization remain committed to his recovery
- + Surgery performed by renowned specialist Dr. Neal ElAttrache
- + GM indicates early 2027 return is realistic
- + Player showed determination to attempt conservative rehab approach first
- + No additional complications reported from surgery
Weaknesses
- - Season-ending Tommy John surgery required
- - Chronic injury history affecting durability
- - Limited to 85 games in 2025 due to multiple injuries
- - Conservative treatment (PRP injection) failed to resolve issue
- - Repeated shutdowns during 2026 spring training and early season
- - Questions about long-term durability as a major league player
- - Significant blow to Orioles' infield depth
- - Age 27 with mounting injury concerns
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Weston Eberly is a catcher for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
C
Chicago Cubs