Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Justin Martinez, 24-year-old right-handed closer for the Arizona Diamondbacks, underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow in July 2025 after suffering an elbow injury on June 9, 2025. As of May 2026, Martinez has completed his first bullpen session since surgery, showing encouraging signs with fastball velocity in the 96-99 mph range (upper-90s to 99 MPH). Manager Torey Lovullo described the session as "electric" and noted Martinez is "in a good spot." The pitcher still requires approximately 15 more bullpen sessions before beginning a minor-league rehab assignment, with a targeted return to the Diamondbacks bullpen in late August 2026. This represents significant progress in his recovery journey, though he remains several months away from game action.
Strengths
- + Velocity maintained at 96-99 mph on first post-surgery bullpen session
- + Manager describes performance as 'electric'
- + Early return to mound activity ahead of schedule
- + Young age (24) suggests good recovery potential
- + Fastball velocity climbing to 99 mph shows arm strength intact
- + Clear progression pathway with defined milestones
Weaknesses
- - Tommy John surgery requires lengthy rehabilitation
- - Still 4+ months away from potential return (late August 2026)
- - Requires 15 additional bullpen sessions before rehab assignment
- - Second Tommy John surgery mentioned in reports
- - Extended time away from competitive baseball
- - Uncertainty regarding consistency of velocity as workload increases
Injury Status: IL-60 -- Right elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery (performed July 2025). First bullpen session completed May 8, 2026. Targeting late August 2026 return.
About
Chazz Martinez is a rp for the Kansas City Royals.
Player Overview
RP
Kansas City Royals