Minnesota Twins pitcher Pablo López has found an unconventional way to navigate the challenges of recovering from his second Tommy John surgery, embracing a variety of roles within the organization during his rehabilitation. The Cuban-born right-hander has spent the past six months immersed in activities beyond pitching, which he credits with helping him maintain a positive outlook throughout his recovery process.
López underwent surgery on February 25, 2026, after tearing his ulnar collateral ligament during the Twins’ first full-squad workout. Instead of isolating himself from the team during his rehab, he opted to stay closely connected with teammates and staff, engaging in what he described as "side quests." These included acting as an interpreter for Spanish-speaking players, working as a broadcast analyst in both TV and radio booths, shadowing bullpen catchers, pitching coaches, and even the manager of baseball technology.
The idea for López’s expanded role grew from a combination of his own initiative and suggestions from teammates and the team's sports psychologist, Justin Anderson. Early in the season, the Twins lacked a full-time interpreter since all active players spoke at least some English, but when rookie Kendry Rojas, a Cuban player with limited English proficiency, made his major league debut, López was asked to assist with communication. This marked the beginning of López’s more active participation in non-pitching roles.
During road trips, López would accompany bullpen staff, observing how relievers prepared for games and learning about different aspects of the team's daily routines. He also worked alongside bullpen coach LaTroy Hawkins and pitching coach Pete Maki, gaining insight into coaching methods. Additionally, López spent time with front-office employees managing video duties and game advance tasks, while occasionally feeding fungoes to players under the guidance of first-base coach Grady Sizemore.
Twins manager Derek Shelton praised López’s approach, highlighting the pitcher’s character and team spirit. “The quality of person and quality of teammate of Pablo López really stands out when you see him when he’s not even pitching,” Shelton said, noting that López’s presence added value beyond his performance on the mound. Outfielder Byron Buxton, also sidelined with injury at the trade deadline but traveling with the team, cited López’s engagement as a factor in his own decision to stay involved with the club despite being inactive.
Recently cleared by his surgeon to resume throwing, López played catch for the first time since his surgery during a visit to San Diego on August 21. Describing the moment with visible excitement, he spoke about the importance of staying mentally and physically active throughout his recovery. López emphasized that the small but meaningful tasks he took on helped time pass more quickly and kept his connection to baseball strong.
“It didn’t have to be anything grand or anything outrageous to begin with,” López said. “Just small tasks, small activities here and there. I just took advantage of it.” With the Twins still vying for a spot in the American League wild-card race at 64-70, López looks forward to returning on the mound but remains appreciative of the broader perspective gained during his rehabilitation period.