Ben Joyce to Miss Rest of Season with Shoulder Injury
Los Angeles Angels reliever Ben Joyce will not pitch again this season due to surgery on his right shoulder.
The team announced the news on Wednesday, marking a setback for Joyce, who was placed on the injured list a month ago due to inflammation in his throwing shoulder.
The team did not provide specific details about the nature of the injury and the surgery of the 6-foot-5-inch pitcher.
Joyce, known for his ability to throw 105 mph when in top form, is in his third season with the Angels, having debuted in the Major Leagues two years ago.
After being limited by injuries in 2023, Joyce made 31 appearances for Los Angeles last season, posting a 2.08 ERA and showing potential as a setup man and eventual closer.
Last September, he threw a 105.5 mph fastball against Tommy Edman of the Dodgers. This pitch was the third fastest recorded in the majors since 2008.
However, Joyce was placed on the injured list a week after that start and made only five appearances this season before being placed back on the list, after a dip in his velocity. The Angels transferred him to the 60-day injured list last week, raising concerns about another significant injury setback.
In his career, Joyce has made 48 appearances for the Angels, with a record of 4-1, an ERA of 3.12, and a WHIP of 1.31.
During his college career at Tennessee, Joyce underwent Tommy John surgery, but managed to throw 105 mph upon returning from the injury. He also missed a junior college season before joining the Volunteers due to a stress fracture in his elbow.
