Miami Marlins pitching prospect Robby Snelling will undergo Tommy John surgery Friday to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his left elbow, ending his season just days after his major league debut, the team announced Thursday.
Snelling, Miami's No. 2 prospect, threw five solid innings in his debut against Washington on May 8 before reporting elbow discomfort following a bullpen session. He was placed on the 60-day injured list after a UCL sprain diagnosis. The 22-year-old met with Dr. Keith Meister on Thursday and elected to proceed with reconstructive surgery. A recovery timeline will be provided after Friday's procedure.
"Disappointing for him and us," said manager Clayton McCullough. "That's an unfortunate part of our industry. Guys go down. We just keep going, and Robby will come back from this a stronger person."
McCullough indicated the club will audition multiple pitchers for the vacant fifth rotation spot. Braxton Garrett, recently optioned to Triple-A Jacksonville, and reliever Tyler Phillips, who has posted 27 strikeouts across 30 innings this season, are among the candidates.
"Guys will have chances to step into that spot and have a chance to perform here," said McCullough.
Miami originally acquired Snelling from San Diego in July 2024 in exchange for reliever Tanner Scott.





