Scouting Report: Juan Then
Chicago Cubs | SP
Overall
Summary
Juan Valera, 19-year-old Red Sox RHP prospect, underwent Tommy John surgery on his right elbow on Tuesday after suffering an injury during his third start of the 2026 season on April 16. Initially diagnosed as elbow inflammation, subsequent MRI imaging revealed a UCL tear requiring surgical reconstruction. Valera was off to an exceptional start, posting a 1.93 ERA with 17 strikeouts in 9.1 innings across three starts before the injury. This marks the second consecutive season he has suffered an elbow injury, having missed three months in 2025 with elbow soreness. Recovery typically requires 12-14 months, sidelining him through most of the 2027 season.
Strengths
- Exceptional pre-injury performance (1.93 ERA, 17 K in 9.1 IP)
- High velocity fastball (101.7 mph peak)
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