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Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Juan Valera, 19-year-old right-handed pitching prospect for the Boston Red Sox, underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2026 after suffering right elbow inflammation during his third start of the season for High-A Greenville. The prospect had an exceptional start to 2026, striking out 17 batters in 9.1 innings with a 1.93 ERA across three starts before the injury. Valera is ranked as the No. 4 prospect in the Red Sox system and features a triple-digit fastball (96-98 mph, touching 101.7 mph), upper-80s slider reaching 93 mph, and a 50-grade changeup. Recovery from Tommy John surgery typically requires 12-18 months, meaning he will miss the remainder of 2026 and likely most of 2027. MLB.com scouts have suggested a potential future as a closer due to recurring elbow issues limiting his durability as a starter.
Strengths
- + Triple-digit fastball velocity (96-98 mph, touching 101.7 mph)
- + Exceptional strikeout ability (17 K in 9.1 IP to start 2026)
- + Low ERA to start season (1.93 ERA in 3 starts)
- + High-ceiling prospect ranked No. 4 in Red Sox system
- + Strong pitch mix including slider and changeup
- + Young age (19 years old) allows for recovery time
- + Successful surgery performed by renowned specialist Dr. Jeffrey R. Dugas
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Sahid Valenzuela is a shortstop for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
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Chicago Cubs