Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Justin Martinez, 24-year-old Arizona Diamondbacks closer, underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow in June 2025. As of May 2026, he has completed his first bullpen session since surgery at Salt River Fields, throwing with fastball velocity in the 96-99 mph range. Manager Torey Lovullo described the session as "electric." Martinez still requires approximately 15 total bullpen sessions before progressing to a minor-league rehab assignment, with a targeted return to the active roster in late August 2026. Martinez 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 describes performance as 'electric'
- + Early positive sign for recovery trajectory
- + Young age (24) aids recovery potential
- + Established closer with proven track record (13 saves, 2.76 ERA)
- + Triple-digit fastball capability retained
Weaknesses
- - Second Tommy John surgery (previous surgery history)
- - Long recovery timeline - not expected back until late August 2026
- - Still requires 15 bullpen sessions before minor-league rehab
- - Significant time away from competitive baseball
- - Elbow injury to throwing arm is serious concern for pitcher longevity
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Jordi Martinez is a sp for the Colorado Rockies.
Player Overview
SP
Colorado Rockies