A study, published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine, analyzed ulnar collateral ligament tears in MLB position players.
Researchers conducted a cohort study of 33 players who underwent UCL reconstruction. They identified demographic and performance data for each player and matched each one to controls. Researchers measured return-to-sport rates. The 33 players underwent 34 procedures at a mean age of 30.2 years ± 4.2 years. The players had 6.3 years ± 3.9 years of major league experience.
Here's what they found.
1. Twenty-eight players returned to the sport after a mean 336.9 days ± 121.8 days.
2. Players who were over 30 years experienced a significantly lower RTS rate than players who were under 30.
3. Catchers had a short career after returning from the surgery, averaging only 2.8 years ± 1.8 years after returning.
4. Outfielders performed worse after returning from surgery, losing 0.8 ± 0.7 wins above replacement — a statistic used to measure a player's value.
5. There were no performance differences between the cases and matched controls.
6. Approximately 12 players returned to a different position postoperatively.
Researchers concluded, "The RTS rate for MLB position players after elbow UCL reconstruction is similar to that of pitchers. Catchers had a significantly shorter career length than that of matched controls. Outfielders performed worse postoperatively versus preoperatively. There is a high rate of position change after Tommy John surgery for infielders and outfielders."