Scouting Report: A.J. Block
Chicago Cubs | RP
Overall
Summary
A.J. Puk, Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher, is progressing well in his recovery from elbow surgery performed in summer 2025. He is scheduled to face live hitters for the first time at Salt River Fields on Tuesday (May 20, 2026), with plans to throw approximately one inning of 15-20 pitches. If successful, Puk could return to game action this weekend in the Arizona Complex League. He is ahead of fellow injured Diamondbacks pitchers Justin Martinez (potentially August return) and Corbin Burnes (July target) on their respective return timelines. Puk entered 2025 as a co-closer and is a key component of the team's bullpen plans.
Strengths
- Ahead of schedule on return timeline compared to teammates Martinez and Burnes
- Cleared to face live hitters, indicating significant progress in rehabilitation
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