Ben Lively's season is officially over as the Cleveland Guardians announced he requires Tommy John surgery due to a UCL injury, casting uncertainty over his recovery timeline that could extend into 2026. Last season, Lively posted a career-best 3.81 ERA, but his 2025 performance showed promise with a 3.22 ERA in 44.2 innings until the injury forced his shutdown. His absence puts additional strain on a Guardians rotation already missing Shane Bieber, who is similarly recovering from Tommy John surgery.

The Guardians' current rotation now leans on Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, Luis Ortiz, and Logan Allen, with rookie Slade Cecconi stepping in. These arms must step up in Lively's absence, particularly as the team navigates a tough stretch. The impact on fantasy leagues could be significant, especially considering Lively's previous trajectory as a reliable starter.

Ben Lively, the Guardians pitcher, is set to undergo Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, which will sideline him for the remainder of the season. This decision comes after he was placed on the injured list due to a strained right flexor tendon since May 13. Following a second opinion from Dr. Keith Meister, it was confirmed that Lively has a flexor tendon injury along with medial elbow joint laxity due to an insufficient ulnar collateral ligament. The surgery, which is expected to keep him out for 12-16 months, follows a promising start to the season where Lively posted a 3.22 ERA in 10 outings.

This injury marks a significant setback for the Guardians as Lively had been demonstrating solid performance in May, allowing only one earned run over 14 innings in his last three starts. His absence will require the Guardians to explore alternative options in their pitching rotation as they aim to remain competitive throughout the season.

The Cleveland Guardians may have found a promising solution to fill the gap left by Ben Lively in the starting rotation. In his debut, Slade Cecconi impressed by striking out eight batters without issuing a walk, despite the Guardians losing 4-1 to the Reds. Manager Stephen Vogt praised Cecconi for a strong performance after a lengthy recovery from an oblique injury.

Cecconi allowed three runs over five innings, with a solo home run from Will Benson marking a highlight of the game. His showing indicates he could be a viable option moving forward, especially as Lively is sidelined with a flexor strain.