Recent MLS Medical Malpractice Verdict Demonstrates Perils Of Being A Team Doctor

By Christopher R. Deubert, Senior Writer On March 28, 2025, an Oregon jury awarded former Portland Timbers goalkeeper Jake Gleeson $20.4 million in damages against Dr. Richard Edelson, a Timbers doctor.  Gleeson had alleged that Edelson was negligent in performing surgery on Gleeson’s legs in 2018, resulting in painful infections which required 14 additional surgeries and ended his career.  The verdict highlights the complicated relationship among teams, team doctors, and players,