Tigers' Alex Cobb Ends Season, Plans Hip Surgery, Retirement Possible

Alex Cobb, the 37-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, has announced he will shut down for the remainder of the season to undergo right hip resurfacing surgery due to persistent arthritis and pain. Despite multiple efforts to rehab, including injections and rehab appearances where he posted strong minor league stats, Cobb concluded he could no longer perform at an acceptable level, leading to his decision after a recent rehab outing. Signed by the Tigers to a $15 million one-year contract last December, Cobb had hoped to pitch in the postseason but was sidelined by recurring hip issues, including previous surgeries on both hips since 2019. He is not ready to officially retire but acknowledges it as a strong possibility given his physical condition and the surgery ahead. Throughout the season, Cobb experienced intense pain that ultimately forced him to stop, reflecting on the disappointment of not being able to contribute on the mound. His career includes 233 starts over 13 seasons, an All-Star appearance in 2023, and multiple postseason appearances, but the injury now casts uncertainty on his future in baseball.