D-backs closer Martinez has UCL sprain; ’25 over

D-backs closer Martinez has UCL sprain; ’25 over

Arizona’s pitching staff took another hit as right-handed closer Justin Martinez is done for the season with a sprained ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow.

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo told MLB Network radio Friday that Martinez is still seeking a second opinion on the next steps but said he is expected to miss 12 to 13 months.

Earlier this season, Martinez was placed on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation, but he had returned in what seemed to be full form until Monday’s game over the visiting Seattle Mariners.

In the eventual 8-4 win, Martinez struck out two and walked one when he suddenly motioned to the trainer in the middle of the next at-bat and left the game, reporting tightness in the right elbow. A subsequent MRI exam revealed the UCL sprain and sent Martinez to the 15-day IL on Tuesday.

The Diamondbacks currently have eight pitchers on the IL, including four who are out for the season with UCL injuries: Corbin Burnes, Jordan Montgomery, Blake Walston and now Martinez.

Additionally, Martinez’s co-closer A.J. Puk was placed on the 60-day injured list on May 1 due to left elbow inflammation and could return in early July. Three others — Cristian Mena (shoulder), Kendall Graveman (hip), Christian Montes De Oca (elbow) — have no timetable for a return.

Martinez converted to reliever after he returned from Tommy John surgery in 2021.

The 23-year-old is 1-2 with five saves and a 4.11 ERA in 17 relief appearances this season.

He is 6-8 with 14 saves and a 3.77 ERA in 91 career relief appearances with Arizona.


Source link

Oh hi there 👋
It’s nice to meet you.

Sign up to receive awesome content in your inbox, every week.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

More From Author

Giant atoms ‘trapped’ for record time at room temperature

Giant atoms ‘trapped’ for record time at room temperature

Aukus: Could Trump sink Australia’s submarine plans?

Aukus: Could Trump sink Australia’s submarine plans?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *