Patrick Sandoval told MassLive.com he underwent an internal brace procedure last July, not a full Tommy John surgery.
Sandoval added that he started a throwing program “a couple weeks ago” and is “progressing well” in the lead up to spring training, which is just over three weeks away. The unexpected revelation dramatically alters Sandoval’s potential return timetable as the initial expectation after he signed with the Red Sox last month was that he wouldn’t be ready until the late stages of the 2025 campaign, even in a best-case scenario. The 28-year-old lefty should be ready to contribute at some point around midseason and represents an intriguing stash candidate for fantasy managers as the second half draws closer. With his signature changeup still a big-time weapon, Sandoval seems like a perfect fit for Red Sox pitching coach Andrew Bailey’s approach, which places an emphasis on attacking primarily with off-speed pitches.