Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Chase Dollander, 24-year-old right-hander for the Colorado Rockies, was placed on the 15-day IL with a right elbow sprain after exiting Thursday's game against Pittsburgh in the second inning with arm tightness. MRI revealed only a minor UCL sprain with inflammation, avoiding the worst-case scenario of a torn UCL requiring Tommy John surgery. Dollander expressed relief and optimism about recovery, stating it was "probably the best-case scenario." Prior to injury, he was performing well with a 3.89 ERA, 47 strikeouts, and 3-3 record in 10 starts, with a fastball averaging 98.7 mph (second-fastest among qualified pitchers). The injury occurred after allowing 3 runs in the first inning and experiencing velocity dips in the second.
Strengths
- + Dodged major injury - only minor UCL sprain, not torn ligament
- + MRI showed only minor inflammation around ligament
- + Young ace with strong potential for Rockies' future
- + Fastball velocity among league leaders at 98.7 mph average
- + Positive mindset and optimistic outlook on recovery
- + Best-case scenario outcome for elbow injury
Weaknesses
- - Right elbow sprain requiring 15-day IL placement
- - Experienced unusual arm sensations and tightness during game
- - Velocity dips noted in second inning before exit
- - Early exit in second inning with only 28 pitches thrown
- - Allowed 3 runs in first inning before injury
- - Uncertainty about recovery timeline beyond 15 days
Injury Status: IL-15
About
Chase Pinder is a center fielder for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
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Chicago Cubs