Red Sox's Tanner Houck to Undergo Season-Ending Tommy John Surgery on Elbow Injury

Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Tanner Houck will undergo Tommy John surgery and miss the rest of the 2025 season, Red Sox manager Alex Cora announced Saturday.

"Tanner's going to have Tommy John surgery," Cora said, via ESPN. "He went to see Dr. [Keith] Meister there in Texas, and that was the recommendation. We don't have a date yet, but he's going to have it."

Houck only made nine starts during his 2025 campaign and hasn't pitched since May 12 due to a right flexor strain.

He struggled prior to his extended absence, owning a record of 0-3 in nine starts while posting a disappointing 8.04 ERA and 1.695 WHIP. Houck fared much better during the 2024 season, earning the first All-Star nod of his career as he compiled a 3.12 ERA and limited opposing hitters to a .231/.296/.320 slash line.

"Tough year for him, tough year for us," Cora said, per ESPN. "But he'll kill the rehab, he'll do his job, and when he comes back, he's going to be OK."

Houck attempted to return from the initial injury in June, making five rehab appearances with Double-A Portland and Triple-A Worcester. He recorded a 5.74 ERA before he was eventually pulled from his rehab assignment due to the strain persisting.

On Thursday, the Red Sox transferred Houck to the 60-day injured list to free up space on their 40-man roster following the trade acquisition of Dustin May.

Boston's rotation has experienced several long-term injuries this season, with Houck being the latest. Rookie starter Hunter Dobbins has already been ruled out for the year with a torn ACL, while Kutter Crawford underwent season-ending wrist surgery in June.

The Red Sox currently hold the second American League wild card spot with a 60-51 record.