Chicago White Sox right-hander Mike Vasil will miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing season-ending Tommy John surgery, the team announced Tuesday. The 25-year-old was pulled from his final spring training start against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth inning Saturday with right elbow soreness. The surgery, performed by Texas Rangers team physician Dr. Keith Meister in the coming weeks, will sideline Vasil for 12 to 18 months.

Vasil, a 2025 first-round draft pick, was 5-3 with a 2.50 ERA as a rookie last year, making three starts in 47 appearances. He had been competing for a rotation spot after being claimed off waivers from the Rangers in 2025, where he was a key part of their bullpen. His absence creates a significant vacancy in the White Sox's rotation heading into the regular season.

The injury leaves the White Sox without one of their top pitching prospects just weeks before Opening Day, forcing them to promote a replacement from the minors or make a trade. Vasil's recovery timeline will determine when he can return to the mound, but his absence is a major blow to the team's rotation depth.