NL West: Martinez locked in as ARI closer after Puk injury?

Arizona Diamondbacks

The elbow injury for Diamondbacks' LHP A.J. Puk looks to have solidified the position of RHP Justin Martinez as the team's closer for the time being. Puk hit the 15-day IL after experiencing left elbow inflammation following his April 17 appearance. He underwent an MRI on April 21 and the Diamondbacks are seeking a second and potentially third opinion on the results prior to making any announcement on a prognosis. This certainly doesn’t appear promising for a short stint on the IL.

But Martinez was unavailable in the Diamondbacks' April 22 game against the Rays with what is being described as shoulder fatigue. He has not pitched since April 17. Manager Torey Lovullo said Martinez is “very, very close” to 100%,...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Mickey Gasper has taken a prominent spot in Boston's struggling lineup and is flashing some interesting skills. Plus, Spencer Jones' early struggles could necessitate change for NYY, and more.
May 19 2026 3:05am
The BHQ playing time metrics give us a new perspective on our previous beliefs about NL West players. So this week, let's see what we can learn.
May 16 2026 3:06am
Michael Conforto is playing more against righties during a hot streak, but the Cubs are trying to keep Moisés Ballesteros in the lineup against them as well
May 15 2026 3:05am
Using BaseballHQ's exclusive Playing Time Metrics to examine usage trends across the NL East.
May 14 2026 11:17am
Isaac Collins has struggled vs. LHP, and it might be time for the Royals to give Jac Caglianone another shot at everyday at-bats. Plus, Sam Antonacci's rise in CHW, Angel Martínez's platoon splits in CLE, an opportunity for Matt Vierling in DET, and why the Twins won't play Ryan Jeffers more.
May 14 2026 3:06am

Tools