Ronny Henriquez undergoes UCL reconstruction surgery, will miss 2026 season

Miami Marlins right-handed reliever Ronny Henriquez will miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing right elbow UCL reconstruction surgery with an internal brace. MLB.com's Christina De Nicola was the first to report the news Monday night and the club later followed with official confirmation.

Dr. Keith Meister performed the procedure—that's the same surgeon who worked with fellow Marlins Sandy Alcantara and Eury Pérez when they required UCL reconstruction.

Henriquez, 25, was claimed off waivers from the Minnesota Twins on February 11 and made the Opening Day roster out of spring training. In 69 appearances (73.0 IP), he posted a 2.22 ERA, 3.15 FIP, 12.08 K/9, 3.33 BB/9 and notched seven saves. His 98 strikeouts tied Edwin Díaz for second-most among National League relievers last year. He didn't spend any time on the injured list.

In 2025, the Marlins ranked 26th amongst MLB bullpens in fWAR and 22nd in bullpen ERA.

Before the loss of Henriquez, the Marlins had been in pursuit of veteran relievers this offseason. They are now even more desperate for outside help. Original top targets such as Devin Williams, Ryan Helsley and Kyle Finnegan are now off the market after receiving multi-year deals. Miami remains very interested in Pete Fairbanks, who may be the best option in free agency willing to take a one-year deal.

Current in-house candidates to enter games in high-leverage situations include Calvin Faucher, who led the team last year with 15 saves, Anthony Bender and Tyler Phillips. Also, Lake Bachar and left-hander Cade Gibson were on the active roster for most of the year.