The One-Third Rule: Why So Many Professional Pitchers Have Had UCL Surgery

The One-Third Rule: Why So Many Professional Pitchers Have Had UCL Surgery

Tommy John surgery has become a routine part of professional baseball, but the numbers are shocking—1 in 3 MLB pitchers has had some form of UCL surgical intervention. Dr. Jason Zaremski explains why this number is so high, why it’s now affecting young pitchers, and what can be done to prevent unnecessary surgeries.

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• Increased velocity demands – Pitchers are throwing harder than ever, putting more strain on the UCL.

• Higher workloads from a young age – Many pitchers are overworked in high school and travel ball, leading to injuries before they even reach the pros.

• Surgical advancements – Because Tommy John surgery has become so common, it’s now viewed as a routine part of a pitcher’s career.

• "Next man up" mentality – Teams expect pitchers to undergo surgery, rehab, and return to full strength, often ignoring long-term risks.

The Hidden Risks of Tommy John Surgery

While many pitchers return to play after UCL surgery, there are long-term consequences:

• Not every pitcher regains full velocity or command.

• A second Tommy John surgery has a lower success rate.

• Rehab can take 12-18 months, meaning a full season is lost.

• Some pitchers never make it back to their previous level.

Dr. Zaremski stresses that surgery is not a guaranteed fix, and avoiding injury in the first place should always be the goal.

How Young Pitchers Can Avoid UCL Surgery

The best way to prevent UCL injuries is to develop smarter training habits early on:

• Limit throwing volume – Track innings, pitch counts, and recovery days across all teams.

• Avoid overuse at a young age – More throwing does not always mean better development.

• Prioritize proper mechanics – Bad form puts unnecessary stress on the UCL.

• Incorporate strength and mobility training – A stronger body supports a more durable arm.

Learn More About Sore to Soaring

At Sore to Soaring, we educate athletes, coaches, and parents on how to develop young pitchers safely and avoid unnecessary injuries.

Learn more at:

SoreToSoaring.org

Disclaimer:

The views shared are those of the guest and do not represent an endorsement by Lupos Initiative Inc., DBA Sore to Soaring. This content is for informational purposes only and not medical or training advice. Always consult a qualified professional before starting any exercise or throwing program. No affiliation or compensation exists between Sore to Soaring and any for-profit entity mentioned.

If you wish to learn more about Dr. Zaremski’s work, visitUFHealth.org.

#Baseball #TommyJohnSurgery #UCLInjury #PitchingHealth #InjuryPrevention #SoreToSoaring