With Opening Day just over a week away, the San Francisco Giants provided a handful of medical updates on several players Sunday as the club continues its final preparations for the start of the 2026 season.
The San Francisco Giants announced that right-hander Hayden Birdsong underwent an MRI after experiencing discomfort in his right forearm. The imaging revealed a grade 2 forearm strain and UCL sprain, a concerning development for the young pitcher as the regular season approaches.
According to the team, Birdsong is currently weighing his treatment options and plans to seek a second opinion from renowned orthopedic surgeon Keith Meister.
Meister has handled numerous high-profile elbow cases across Major League Baseball, and the consultation will likely help determine whether Birdsong pursues rest and rehabilitation or a more serious intervention.
(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Another pitcher dealing with an injury is Parks Harber, who is battling a right hamstring strain. The Giants said Harber will undergo an MRI on Monday to determine the severity of the injury. Until the imaging results are known, it remains unclear whether the issue will impact his availability when the San Francisco Giants break camp and finalize their roster for the regular season.
A pair of pitchers further along in their recovery process are Sam Hentges and Joel Peguero.
Hentges, who underwent right knee surgery and left shoulder surgery, is continuing his rehab progression. The Giants did not provide a specific timeline for his return, but the update signals that his recovery remains on track as the club monitors his workload during camp.
Peguero is also working his way back from injury after suffering a left hamstring strain. The right-hander has progressed to throwing out to 90 feet, an encouraging step in his throwing program as he builds strength and works toward returning to full pitching activities.
Meanwhile, right-hander Reiver Sanmartin continues to rehab from a right hip flexor strain. Like Hentges, Sanmartin remains in the recovery phase as the Giants carefully ramp up his activity.
More MLB content from Sactown Sports
Upcoming San Francisco Giants & MLB Offseason Schedule
February-March: Spring Training
Wednesday, March 25th – vs. New York Yankees – 5:05 PM PT (Opening Day)
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