The Boston Red Sox suffered a blow this week as rookie pitcher Hunter Dobbins tore the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) in his right knee while covering first base during a game on July 11, 2025. He came up limping after making the play and was removed from the game shortly after trying a warm-up pitch. MRI later confirmed a complete ACL tear which is an injury that typically ends a season and often requires close to a year of rehab for high-level athletes.
As a sports medicine physician, I often see knee injuries like this in athletes of all levels, from weekend warriors to professionals.
How ACL Tears Happen
The ACL is a key stabilizer inside the knee joint, preventing forward shifting and rotational instability of the tibia or shin bone. It’s often injured during sudden stops, pivots, or awkward landings. In Dobbins’ case, sprinting to cover first base and planting his foot awkwardly likely put a high rotational force on his knee causing the ligament to tear.
Diagnosing an ACL Injury
In my clinic, I start with a thorough history and physical exam, asking about the mechanism of injury and any sensations of a “pop,” instability, or swelling.
If an ACL tear is suspected, I perform specific knee physical examination tests like the Lachman test or anterior drawer test to assess knee stability during the first visit.
When clinical suspicion is high, I order an MRI, which remains the gold standard to confirm a knee ACL tear and identify associated injuries like meniscus tears or bone bruising.
Recovery Timeline for ACL Injuries
For a complete ACL tear in an athlete like Dobbins, surgical reconstruction is typically necessary.
Recovery after surgery is a gradual process:
- Weeks 0–6: Focus on controlling swelling, restoring range of motion, and activating the quadriceps.
- Months 2–4: Begin strength training, balance work, and controlled cardio like cycling.
- Months 4–6: Introduce light jogging and sport-specific drills.
- Months 6–9+: Gradual return to full activity, including pitching or cutting movements.
For elite athletes, returning to competitive play often takes 9–12 months, assuming no complications.
How I Help Patients with Knee Injuries
Whether you’re a professional Major League Baseball pitcher or a weekend softball player, knee injuries like ACL tears can be devastating.
In my sports medicine practice at CLS Health, I use a comprehensive approach:
- Expert clinical assessment to identify the root of the injury
- On-site imaging coordination, including MRI referrals
- Non-surgical management options for partial injuries or low-demand patients
- Referral to trusted orthopedic surgeons for reconstruction when needed
- Customized rehabilitation protocols to guide you through every step of your recovery
Our goal is always to help you recover fully and safely so you can get back to the activities you love, stronger than before.
Hunter Dobbins’ injury is a tough setback, but with the right care, he has a good chance of returning to the mound for the Boston Red Sox.
If you’ve experienced knee pain, instability, or a sports-related injury, don’t wait.
Early evaluation and diagnosis are key to a successful outcome.
Schedule your consultation today with Dr. Javier Rios M.D., Houston's Nonsurgical Orthopedic and Sports MD at CLS Health Sports Medicine in Houston.
Move Better. Feel Better. Get Back to What you Love.
