San Francisco Giants pitcher Hayden Birdsong will miss the entire 2026 season after being diagnosed with a torn ulnar collateral ligament requiring Tommy John surgery. The 24-year-old right-hander first experienced elbow soreness following a Cactus League appearance on March 10, prompting the Giants to seek a specialist's opinion.

Birdsong met with Dr. Keith Meister after the team initially diagnosed him with a forearm strain and UCL sprain. The young pitcher showed promise during his rookie campaign, posting a 4.80 ERA across 21 appearances including 10 starts. He recorded 68 strikeouts over 65 2/3 innings while going 4-4 in his first full major league season.

The injury represents a significant setback for both Birdsong and the Giants' pitching plans. As a key young arm in San Francisco's rotation, his absence creates a substantial hole in the team's depth chart heading into the 2026 season.