Beavs star pitcher Kevin Abel to undergo Tommy John surgery

After guiding Oregon State to the program’s third national championship as a freshman in 2018, the sophomore campaign for Kevin Abel will be cut short.

Abel announced in a surprise press conference Tuesday night that he will undergo Tommy John surgery, ending his season.

Abel had a 3-0 record and 3.86 ERA this season in 16-2/3 innings pitched.  He was a four-game winner at last year’s College World Series.  He had not pitched in a game since March 1st against West Virginia, then was a late scratch from the lineup a week later with back soreness.

Abel told media members that he discovered some forearm tightness in the days recovering from the back discomfort, and he saw three specialists before it was determined Tommy John surgery on his right elbow was the best option.

The right-hander did not specify a date for his surgery.  TJ recovery times can vary widely, though most pitchers don’t return to game action any sooner than 12 months from the surgery date.

The Beavers lost to the Ducks Tuesday night, 12-8 in Corvallis, snapping OSU’s 10-game win streak against their rivals.