Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Justin Martinez, 24-year-old Arizona Diamondbacks closer, underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2025 after suffering an elbow injury. He has recently begun his recovery with his first bullpen session in May 2026, where he demonstrated encouraging velocity (96-99 mph fastball). Manager Torey Lovullo described the session as "electric." Martinez is expected to require 15 total bullpen sessions before progressing to a minor-league rehab assignment, with a potential return targeted for late August 2026. The young right-hander previously saved 13 games in 2024-25 with a 2.76 ERA and triple-digit fastball.
Strengths
- + Velocity maintained at 96-99 mph on first bullpen post-surgery
- + Manager described performance as 'electric'
- + Young age (24) suggests good recovery potential
- + Previously elite closer with 13 saves and 2.76 ERA
- + Triple-digit fastball and strong secondary pitches (splitter, slider)
- + Clear recovery progression pathway established
Weaknesses
- - Tommy John surgery requires lengthy rehabilitation
- - Still 15 bullpen sessions away from next progression step
- - Return not expected until late August 2026 at earliest
- - Extended absence from competition (June 2025 to August 2026)
- - Second Tommy John surgery mentioned in reports
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Daniel Martinez is a sp for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
SP
Chicago Cubs