LG Twins closer You Young-chan faces surgery after right elbow fracture

LG Twins All-Star closer You Young-chan will undergo surgery after sustaining a stress fracture in his right elbow during a Korean Baseball Organization regular-season game Friday, the Korea Times reported Monday, dealing a significant blow to the defending Korean Series champions' bullpen.

You was leading the KBO with 11 saves and a 0.75 ERA over 12 innings before the injury. For Korean-American fans in Orange County who follow the KBO through streaming services, the setback casts a shadow over one of the league's most closely watched clubs.

You was removed from the game against the Doosan Bears at Jamsil Baseball Stadium after grabbing his throwing arm in visible distress following a pitch, according to the Korea Times. The team said he will travel to a hospital in Yokohama, Japan, for further diagnostic imaging before the surgery location is determined.

The 13-appearance sample before the injury had been nearly flawless. You ranked first among all KBO closers with 11 saves while allowing earned runs at a 0.75 rate over 12 innings, the Korea Times reported.

The injury marks the second time in roughly 16 months that You has faced elbow surgery. He underwent an operation for a hairline fracture in December 2024 and missed approximately six months before returning to action this season.

Despite losing their closer, the Twins' relief corps remains the KBO's tightest unit. Twins relievers have posted a league-low 3.16 ERA and held opposing batters to a combined .661 on-base plus slugging percentage, according to the Korea Times. The club is also tied for the best record in one-run games at 6-2.

The defending 2025 Korean Series champions have not announced a replacement closer or a timeline for You's return pending the outcome of his surgical evaluation.

The Twins are scheduled to continue their regular-season slate this week. Closing duties and roster moves are expected to be addressed once You's surgical plan is confirmed following his evaluation in Japan.