Alex Cobb to have hip surgery as Giants $10M contract option decision looms – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

Alex Cobb’s 2023 MLB season came to an early end due to a left hip impingement, and now his start to the 2024 season will be affected.

In a recent announcement, the Giants revealed that Cobb will undergo surgery to address the hip issue. The recovery process will take approximately six months, meaning Cobb will be sidelined at least until April.

The Giants are currently faced with a $10 million option for Cobb in the 2024 season, and this recent development adds an unforeseen twist to their decision.

Cobb proved to be the Giants’ second-best pitcher during the 2023 season, right after staff ace Logan Webb. In 151 1/3 innings pitched, the 36-year-old veteran displayed a 3.87 ERA, a 1.32 WHIP, and 131 strikeouts.

San Francisco originally signed Cobb to a two-year, $20 million contract prior to the 2022 season. The agreement included a club option for 2024, but if the Giants choose not to exercise this option, they will owe Cobb a $2 million buyout.

Cobb battled through the hip injury for most of the second half of the 2023 season, and former manager Gabe Kapler commended the right-handed pitcher for his determination.

“I had a brief conversation with Alex, and I truly appreciate his sacrifices for our team,” Kapler stated on September 20. “He had an exceptional year. It’s certainly a challenge to move forward without him, but I deeply admire his work ethic, competitiveness, and his dedication to this team.”

The Giants are likely to make a decision regarding Cobb’s option soon after the conclusion of the World Series.

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