Tejay Antone’s Incredible Comeback: 3x Tommy John & Reds Return
For most pitchers, a single Tommy John surgery represents a significant setback, potentially derailing a career. But for Cincinnati Reds reliever Tejay Antone, the road back to the mound has been marked by an unprecedented challenge: three separate ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstructions. Despite the rarity and difficulty of recovering from multiple Tommy John surgeries, Antone is back in spring training, demonstrating remarkable resilience, and determination.
The first surgery came in 2017, while Antone was still a Minor Leaguer. He then underwent a second UCL reconstruction in 2021, during what was shaping up to be a breakout season in the Majors. Remarkably, he recovered and even earned a spot on Cincinnati’s Opening Day roster in 2024. However, his comeback was short-lived. Just four appearances into the season, on , Antone felt a familiar pain in his elbow during a game against the New York Mets, leading to the confirmation of a third Tommy John surgery.
The injury was particularly devastating, involving a complete tear of the flexor mass tendon and a partial tear of the UCL. Antone described as a “very, very tough day,” compounded by personal challenges outside of baseball. The prospect of a third reconstruction led him to contemplate retirement, but he ultimately decided to undergo the procedure, performed by Reds orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tim Kremchek, and embark on another arduous recovery process.
The recovery process has been extensive, spanning over 500 days since the injury. Antone began pitching again in the summer of 2025, working his way through the Reds’ minor league affiliates – starting with the High-A Dayton Dragons in August, then progressing to Double-A Chattanooga, and finishing the season with Triple-A Louisville. This methodical progression demonstrates a careful and deliberate approach to rebuilding strength and confidence.
Throughout his rehabilitation, Antone has emphasized the importance of focusing on the present moment. He’s described a mindset of “just execute today and just repeat that process,” concentrating on the immediate task at hand – whether it’s a long toss session or a bullpen workout. This approach has helped him avoid getting overwhelmed by the long-term goal of returning to the Major Leagues.
His teammates recognize the extraordinary effort and mental fortitude required for such a comeback. Jose Trevino commented, “That’s a big deal coming back from multiple injuries and having the want to do that. That’s resilience.” Blake Dunn added, “He has a career in the big leagues…Coming back from three Tommy Johns, you very rarely see guys come back from two let alone three. He’s out there competing, doing very well, throwing a lot of strikes, getting outs and I’ve seen 95 (mph on the radar gun). That’s a testament to his work ethic and the ability he does have.”
As of this spring, Antone appears to be throwing with velocity and command. Reports indicate his fastball is consistently in the mid-90s, and his signature breaking pitches have retained their effectiveness. However, securing a spot in the Reds bullpen will be challenging, as the team already has a number of established relievers. Pitchers like Zach Maxwell and Luis Mey are also vying for opportunities.
Despite the competition, Antone’s experience and proven ability to perform at the Major League level give him a strong case. If he can continue to build strength and maintain his current form, the Reds may find a role for him in their bullpen. His story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of perseverance, a positive attitude, and a relentless work ethic in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Antone is also using his experience to help others. He has expressed a desire to be a resource for young athletes and individuals undergoing similar injuries, offering guidance and support. He is also in the process of publishing a book, “The Tommy John Protocol,” which combines his autobiography with instructional insights, with a planned release this summer. He has even written the ending, anticipating a successful return to the Majors, and is prepared to adjust the narrative if necessary.
Antone’s journey is a testament to the human spirit and the dedication required to overcome significant adversity. His story is a reminder that even after multiple setbacks, it is possible to achieve one’s goals with unwavering determination and a commitment to the process.