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Minnesota Twins Lose Mick Abel to Elbow Surgery: A Season in Limbo

From Near-Miss to Devastating Setback

Just when it seemed like the Minnesota Twins had avoided the worst, a second opinion shattered their hopes. Pitcher Mick Abel, initially cleared by an MRI showing no ligament damage, now faces arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow—another setback in a season already marred by injuries.

Manager Derek Shelton had hinted at lingering concerns, requesting a second medical review. That decision now carries heavy consequences: Abel is out for the foreseeable future, with no guaranteed return before 2025.

A Season Interrupted by Pain

Abel’s path to recovery had begun promisingly. After dominating two rehab starts for St. Paul’s minor league team, he was set to rejoin the majors last Sunday. But a bullpen session just two days prior reignited elbow pain, forcing the abrupt halt.

This isn’t the first time injuries have derailed his season. Abel’s timeline has been a rollercoaster:

• April: Elbow swelling sidelined him early.
• Later: A triceps issue extended his absence beyond initial projections.

Now, another surgery looms—a procedure less severe than Tommy John but still demanding months of recovery, rendering his 2024 season untenable.

A Rising Star’s Uncertain Future

Abel’s potential once made him a cornerstone of Minnesota’s pitching plans. His breakout performance—13 shutout innings, 16 strikeouts over two starts—sparked fan excitement. But injuries have repeatedly stunted his growth.

His trade value was undeniable, playing a pivotal role in last summer’s Jhoan Duran acquisition. Yet now, another injured arm joins a growing list:

• Pablo Lopez (Tommy John, out for 2024)

• Bailey Ober (recovery underway)

  pitching staff is crumbling, leaving the Twins scrambling for answers.

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Could a Faster Recovery Be Possible?

Not all elbow surgeries end in prolonged absences. Detroit’s Tarik Skubal returned in just five weeks after a NanoScope procedure—a less invasive technique that removed loose cartilage.

Could Abel follow the same path? The Twins haven’t confirmed surgical details yet, as the procedure’s specifics will dictate his recovery timeline. For now, their priority is getting him healthy—whatever it takes.

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The Fragility of a Pitcher’s Journey

Abel’s story is a cautionary tale of unpredictable injuries and the brutal fragility of a pitcher’s career. He flashed dominance but couldn’t sustain it on the field. With the Twins already bracing for a tough offseason, his absence piles another layer of uncertainty onto 2025.

Wait and hope? Or explore alternatives? One thing is certain: Mick Abel’s 2024 season is over.