News of pitcher Yu Darvish’s retirement suddenly surfaced online.
Last year, it was announced he had undergone surgery, and I thought he was working on his rehabilitation toward a comeback. This news came as a complete surprise.
Therefore, this article investigates the veracity of the retirement reports and the status of his injury.
Yu Darvish retiring?
Padres pitcher Yu Darvish clarified on his X account on January 25th.
Retirement reports have been explicitly denied!
From this report, it seems he’s looking forward to making a comeback! As one of my favorite players and a fan myself, I guess I can breathe a sigh of relief for now.
However, since they’re discussing terminating his contract, even if he does return, it’s highly likely he’ll join a different team. He might even return to Japanese baseball!
Yu Darvish’s Injury Status
Based on his comment that he is “devoting all his energy to rehabilitation,” it appears he is continuing rehab toward a return. While there has been no public update on his post-surgery progress, it suggests the possibility of a comeback remains.
Last year, Padres pitcher Yu Darvish reported on his X account that he underwent elbow surgery on October 29th.
As reported, if his recovery continues smoothly, he will return in 2027 at age 41.
The team announced his surgery last year, stating, “On October 29th in Arlington, Texas, he underwent surgery performed by Dr. Keith Meister to repair his right elbow’s medial collateral ligament and flexor tendon. Recovery typically takes 12 to 15 months, and he is expected to miss the entire upcoming season.” However, his own report now raises the possibility of him leaving the team.
Last season, inflammation in his right elbow forced him out for an extended period starting from Opening Day. While he earned his first win of the season against the Mets on July 30th, achieving a career total of 204 wins across Japan and the US – the most for a Japanese pitcher – his overall season stats were limited to 15 appearances and 72 innings pitched, finishing with a 5-5 record and a 5.38 ERA.
Comments on social media
Reactions on social media included:
“First, please focus on your rehabilitation. Once your issues in the U.S. are resolved, come back to NPB.”
“That’s Darvish for you. We appreciate him being the first to address these reports himself. We’ll always support you.”
“During the Great East Japan Earthquake, many people drew strength from Yu Darvish’s Twitter. The Japanese people draw power from Yu Darvish.”
“Thank you for your clear explanation. We sincerely pray for your recovery during rehab. Japan sends you our encouragement for your indomitable spirit.”
“We look forward to seeing pitcher Yu Darvish back on the mound. Take your time and don’t rush.”
“Thank you for your personal explanation. Like the many fans reposting here and on the English post, I believe in and support Darvish, respecting whatever decision he makes. First and foremost, I pray you can focus entirely on your rehabilitation.”
…and many more messages of support flooded in! Comments wishing for his return to Japanese baseball were also seen.
Summary
How did you like it?
There were retirement rumors, but it’s now clear from his own explanation that he isn’t considering retirement at this point! While it’s unclear why retirement rumors surfaced contrary to his wishes, he’s currently working on his rehabilitation, and we can only hope for his return!
Thank you for reading this far.
