Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Bennett Sousa, Houston Astros reliever, placed on 15-day IL on May 9, 2026 with elbow inflammation. This is his second IL stint of the season - he started on IL with oblique injury from spring training, was reinstated April 25, made 5 appearances (3.1 IP, 3 ER), then returned to IL. Last pitched May 5 (scoreless inning). Previously missed final month of 2025 season with low-grade elbow flexor/pronator strain. Concerning pattern of recurring elbow issues.
Strengths
- + Pitched scoreless inning in most recent appearance (May 5)
- + Had 2.84 ERA in 44 relief outings prior to 2025 elbow strain
- + Established leverage option for Houston before injuries
- + Quick reinstatement from oblique injury (April 25)
Weaknesses
- - Second IL stint in 2026 season
- - Recurring elbow inflammation issues (2025 elbow strain, now 2026 elbow inflammation)
- - Limited sample size this season (5 appearances, 3.1 IP, 3 ER)
- - Throwing heavy workload before IL placement (3 appearances in 4 days)
- - Chronic injury pattern suggests durability concerns
- - Astros have 15 players on IL including 9 pitchers - depth concerns
Injury Status: IL-15 -- Elbow inflammation; retroactive IL placement to May 6, 2026. History of low-grade elbow flexor/pronator strain in 2025 that caused him to miss final month of season.
About
Bennett Markinson is a catcher for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
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Chicago Cubs