Generating New Scouting Report
This page will refresh automatically when ready.
Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
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
- + Potential return to game action this weekend in Arizona Complex League
- + Was a co-closer entering 2025, indicating high-leverage role and importance to team
- + Manager Torey Lovullo expressing confidence in progression
Weaknesses
- - Underwent elbow surgery in summer 2025, a significant injury for a pitcher
- - Has not pitched in game action since April 17, 2025
- - Still in early stages of return (live batting practice only)
- - Elbow injuries carry risk of re-injury or complications
Injury Status: IL-60
About
A.J. Block is a rp for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
RP
Chicago Cubs