UTK Special 1/2/25

Top Ten Surgeons in Baseball 2025

It’s been a while since I did a Top Ten list, so it seemed like a good way to start off the New Year. I did the first one at Baseball Prospectus, then revisited it when I was at Sports Illustrated. I hadn’t realized I hadn’t done one in over a decade, which makes it all the more interesting that there’s so few of the same names. We’ve lost some, some have retired, and new happens. Dr. James Andrews came to prominence largely because he was one of the first adopters of arthroscopic surgery. It’s not scientific, but a perception, colored by the discussions I have around baseball medical circles. You should pay less attention to the rankings and more to the movement.

With Dr. Andrews stepping back from surgery, there’s more movement on this list this time around and for the first time, a new #1. To start off 2025, here’s my current top ten of sports surgeons, but remember, there’s a lot of people that just missed. I also don’t really put in specialists. While people like Dr. Robert Watkins or Dr. William Meyers are the absolute go-tos for their particular specialities, this is a more baseball-specific list.

Dr. Neal ElAttrache

Neal ElAttrache has built his reputation as one of the top surgeons in baseball, and it’s well-earned. As the Dodgers’ team doctor, he’s seen the elbows and shoulders of some of the biggest names in MLB. Whether it’s a UCL repair or a tricky shoulder reconstruction, players trust ElAttrache to get them back on the mound. Known for his straightforward approach, he’s a surgeon who tells it like it is, and his track record speaks for itself.

Dr. Keith Meister

Keith Meister’s work with the Texas Rangers has made him a go-to for pitchers across the league. Specializing in elbow and shoulder injuries, Meister has become synonymous with UCL repair and revision surgeries. He’s meticulous, and his understanding of the unique stresses of pitching sets him apart. Meister’s patients often praise his ability to balance aggressive treatment plans with realistic recovery timelines. If you’re a pitcher with an injured elbow, Meister’s office is likely your next stop.

Dr. Timothy Kremchek

Timothy Kremchek is the veteran of the group, having spent over 20 years as the Reds’ team physician. He’s seen it all—from Tommy John surgeries to complex shoulder repairs. Kremchek’s philosophy is old-school but effective: fix the injury and get the player back on the field safely. His hands-on approach extends beyond surgery, as he’s deeply involved in injury prevention programs for the Reds and other MLB teams. When players need experience, they call Kremchek. (Yes, that’s a signed Willie Mays jersey in his office.)

Dr. Christopher S. Ahmad

As the Yankees’ team physician, Christopher Ahmad operates under the brightest lights in baseball. Known for his work in UCL reconstructions and shoulder repairs, Ahmad has helped keep some of baseball’s biggest stars in the game. But he’s not just about the big leagues—Ahmad is a vocal advocate for youth sports safety, pushing for better education on injury prevention. His research into pitching mechanics has made him a thought leader in the field, blending science with surgical precision.

Dr. Jeffrey R. Dugas

Jeffrey Dugas, based in Birmingham at Andrews Sports Medicine, has made a name for himself with his surgical skills and patient-first mentality. Specializing in UCL reconstructions, he’s performed hundreds of Tommy John surgeries. Dugas doesn’t just treat the injury; he educates players on how to stay healthy after recovery. His work on the biomechanics of pitching injuries has made him a trusted name in baseball circles, from high school prospects to seasoned pros. His work to develop InternalBrace techniques in the elbow have him moving up. Besides, what other surgeon has his own distillery?

Dr. Lyle Cain

Another of the Andrews protegees based at Andrews Sports Medicine, Lyle Cain is no stranger to MLB pitchers. He’s a Tommy John expert, handling elbow and shoulder injuries with a no-nonsense efficiency. Cain’s work extends into research and innovation, but he’s best known for his results. Players trust him not just to fix the problem but to help them come back better. Cain’s focus on long-term health makes him a favorite among athletes looking for more than just a quick fix. Cain is more known for his football work, which is the only reason he’s not higher on the list.

Dr. Brian Cole

Brian Cole has quietly become one of the top names in sports medicine, earning the trust of MLB players and teams alike. Based at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush in Chicago, Cole juggles his role as head team physician for the Chicago Bulls with his work on elbows and shoulders for baseball players. While he may not be exclusive to baseball, his expertise with shoulder instability and rotator cuff injuries has made him a sought-after resource for pitchers looking to extend their careers.

Dr. Mark Schickendantz

Mark Schickendantz has been the steady hand behind the Cleveland Guardians’ medical team for over 30 years. Specializing in shoulder and elbow injuries, he’s seen his fair share of MLB pitchers. Schickendantz’s approach is practical: treat the injury, map out the recovery, and get the player back to doing what they love. His work extends to research on injury prevention, helping pitchers avoid the wear and tear that often derails careers. In Cleveland, Schickendantz is as reliable as they come.

Dr. Anthony Romeo

Anthony Romeo’s reputation in baseball medicine is built on his ability to tackle complex cases and getting results. Currently re-basing in Chicago, Romeo brings a mix of innovation and practicality to the table. He’s known for his arthroscopic techniques, which help players recover faster and more effectively. Romeo’s clinical research keeps him ahead of the curve, ensuring his patients get the best care available. His ability to handle high-pressure cases makes him a favorite among MLB teams and agents.

Dr. Michael Ciccotti

Michael Ciccotti wears many hats as the Phillies’ team physician and a top surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedics. His expertise in Tommy John surgeries and rotator cuff repairs has made him a trusted name in MLB. Ciccotti takes a balanced approach, ensuring that surgical precision is matched with top-notch rehabilitation plans. His research on elbow and shoulder injuries keeps him at the forefront of sports medicine, and his ability to connect with players has made him a trusted resource in baseball.