Ben Lively Faces 12-16 Month Recovery After Surgery

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Ben Lively will undergo Tommy John surgery and flexor tendon repair following a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister, after initially being diagnosed with a flexor tendon strain when he exited his May 12 start. Further examination revealed significant ligament laxity, necessitating the procedure to reconstruct his right elbow's ulnar collateral ligament. Lively, 33, had been a stabilizing force in the Guardians' rotation with a 3.22 ERA this season, revitalizing his career after joining Cleveland as a depth option. The surgery is expected to sideline him for 12 to 16 months, likely ending his 2025 season and putting his MLB future in question due to his age. His absence is a significant blow to the team, which had relied on his consistent performances amid other pitching injuries. The Guardians have not yet set a surgical date, with more recovery details expected after the operation.