Maeda (elbow) told The Tokyo Mainichi on Jan. 7 that he's realistically targeting a return to action in the final month of the 2022 season. "Even if I can return, it will be around September. It's not a zero percent chance," Maeda said.
Maeda underwent a modified Tommy John surgery Sept. 1, 2021, with his procedure involving the insertion of an internal brace into his right elbow. The innovative procedure was expected to reduce Maeda's recovery timeline to 9-to-12 months rather than the typical 12-to-16, but the 33-year-old still looks as though he plans on requiring a full year to complete his rehab. With the pitcher himself ruling out a midseason return, Maeda doesn't look to be an appealing fantasy investment, even as a final-round selection in AL-only leagues or best-ball drafts. On a more positive note, Maeda seems to have avoided any setbacks since having the procedure, as he said that he plans to resume playing catch at some point during spring training.