Orix Buffaloes pitcher Ryuhei Soya undergoes Tommy John surgery

Orix Buffaloes announced that left-handed pitcher Ryuhei Soya underwent ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, at a hospital in Saga Prefecture on September 23. Soya, a 2022 first-round draft pick, had been struggling with left elbow discomfort since an emergency departure from a game against SoftBank on September 17.

Soya, who recorded five wins in 14 games this season and participated in the World Baseball Classic with Samurai Japan, is expected to begin rehabilitation following approximately one week of hospitalization. Recovery typically takes about a year, and there is a possibility he may restart his career as a developmental player next season.

His absence adds to a significant injury crisis for the Orix pitching staff. The team has seen more than 10 pitchers undergo Tommy John surgery since last year, including key starters such as Miyagi and Yamashita, raising concerns regarding the team's starting rotation depth for the upcoming season.