Athletics' Zack Gelof on Track for 2026 Return After Successful Shoulder Surgery

Athletics second baseman Zack Gelof is on track for the 2026 MLB season following successful surgery for a dislocated left shoulder, sustained on September 19 while diving for a ground ball. Dr. Marc R. Safran of Stanford Medicine outlined his recovery: a sling for four to six weeks, followed by range-of-motion exercises, strengthening around three months, and most activities by four months. However, diving will be restricted for six months, and initial batting will be limited to fungo. This marks Gelof's second major injury in 2025, after a right hand hamate fracture surgery in spring training delayed his season debut until July 4. With the Athletics missing the playoffs, Gelof will not miss any games during his recovery. He concluded the season batting .174 with two home runs and seven RBI over 30 games, aiming for a strong return to his 2024 performance.