The New York Mets face early adversity as several pitchers represent their countries at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The first setback has arrived in the form of right-hander Robert Stock, who has reported shoulder pain after pitching for Team Israel. The Mets announced that Stock will undergo a medical examination to pinpoint the issue.
According to Jon Heyman of The New York Post, Stock has been diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome, indicating that he may need surgery. This injury could sideline him for the entire 2026 season, although there’s still a chance he might make a comeback later in the year.
“Robert Stock, RHP, says he’s been told he needs thoracic outlet syndrome surgery. Said he could possibly be back by the end of the year,” Heyman shared on X.
Robert Stock reported shoulder discomfort after pitching for Team Israel and will no longer participate in the 2026 WBC pic.twitter.com/2X0Z7U8HE9
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 6, 2026
Stock had a strong outing, pitching three scoreless innings in an exhibition against the Miami Marlins. However, he was withdrawn from the WBC roster due to discomfort the following day.
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MLB insider Jon Heyman commented that Stock’s case of thoracic outlet syndrome is particularly severe, with arterial compression in his right shoulder being a significant concern.
“Stock was told he has the ‘bad’ kind of TOS, where the artery is compressed,” Heyman posted on X, noting the seriousness of the diagnosis.
Stock was told he has the “bad” kind of TOS, whereby the artery is compressed. Stock reported shoulder discomfort following three dominant shutout innings for team Israel versus the Marlins https://t.co/1eKFjnVtxU
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 8, 2026
After signing a minor league deal, Stock was optimistic about making the Mets’ Opening Day roster. The 36-year-old right-hander returned to MLB last season with the Boston Red Sox after a four-year hiatus but only managed 2.2 innings of action, primarily playing with Triple-A Worcester. The Mets now face uncertainty as they try to navigate the season ahead with one of their key pitchers possibly sidelined.
