Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. will spend the entire 2019 MLB season on the disabled list (DL) after having Tommy John surgery to reconstruct the ulnar collateral ligament. Symptoms of elbow discomfort began on August 4th, 2018 and was originally diagnosed as a right forearm strain that led to 6 weeks on the DL (See Pitcher’s Elbow for more details). His particular problem was described as“pitching through some stuff” (increased elbow discomfort) during his return. Diagnostic tests included an MRI and postseason physical. Treatment is described as gradual elbow/forearm strengthening and rest/ice/compression rehab to work towards a normal pitching routine. Since surgery on November 6th, 2018, McCullers is currently passing all medical clearance checkpoints (according to medical staff) and is expected to make a full recovery. The plan for return to play is spring training for the 2020 season.