Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Justin Martinez, 24-year-old Arizona Diamondbacks closer, underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2025 following 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. Prior to injury, Martinez saved 13 games in 2024-25 with a 2.76 ERA and triple-digit fastball velocity.
Strengths
- + Velocity maintained at 96-99 mph on first bullpen post-surgery
- + Manager described performance as 'electric'
- + Strong pre-injury track record (13 saves, 2.76 ERA)
- + Triple-digit fastball with nasty secondary arsenal (splitter/slider)
- + Young age (24) allows for full recovery potential
- + Clear recovery progression pathway established
Weaknesses
- - Second Tommy John surgery in career
- - Extended recovery timeline (targeting late August 2026 return)
- - Still requires 15 bullpen sessions before next progression step
- - Long absence from competition (June 2025 to August 2026)
- - Uncertainty regarding full velocity consistency and durability post-surgery
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Alexander Martinez is a catcher for the Colorado Rockies.
Player Overview
C
Colorado Rockies