Oregon State sophomore right-handed pitcher exited his start against Hawaii on April 23rd with tightness in his elbow. Now, the program has confirmed earlier external reports that Whitney will have ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) surgery, ending his season.
In a media availability at Goss Stadium over the weekend, Whitney told James Crepea of The Oregonian that he will fly to Dallas, Texas on May 11th to have that surgery. It’s still not clear if the procedure will make him unable to return for the 2027 season, as medical professionals weigh a brace procedure against the far more taxing Tommy John surgery. With Whitney currently projected as a potential No. 1 pick in the 2027 MLB Draft, it could make pitching again for Oregon State before jumping to the professional ranks an unnecessary risk.
“Honestly, I’m just trying to take it for what I can. Kind of look at it as a blessing in disguise, where it’s gonna set me up for better in the future,” Whitney said to reporters on-hand. “But I’m just making the most of what I can now, knowing that there may be a chance I don’t get the opportunity to throw here again. So, every day, I’m taking it like it’s my last year. So, just giving everything I can to the boys, and try not to bring any attention to myself.”…