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Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Yordys Valdes (Note: Articles reference Juan Valera, a Boston Red Sox prospect) underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2026 after suffering elbow soreness during his third start of the season. The 19-year-old had an impressive start with 17 strikeouts in 9.1 innings across three High-A Greenville appearances before the injury. Tommy John surgery typically requires 12-14 months recovery, meaning he will miss most of the 2027 season. MLB.com scouts have suggested a potential future closer role due to recurring health issues as a starter, though his starter's arsenal (96-98 mph fastball touching 100, upper-80s slider reaching 93 mph, 50-grade changeup) remains promising.
Strengths
- + Exceptional strikeout rate (17 K in 9.1 IP)
- + High-velocity fastball (96-98 mph, touches 100)
- + Quality secondary pitches (slider with two-plane depth, 50-grade changeup)
- + Made Baseball America's Top 100 prospects list
- + Ranked as high as No. 4 prospect in Boston system
- + Mid-rotation starter ceiling potential
- + Successful Tommy John surgery completed
Weaknesses
- - Recurring elbow injuries (missed 3 months last year with elbow soreness)
- - Season-ending Tommy John surgery required
- - Limited professional innings (138 total)
- - Reliever risk noted by scouts
- - Health concerns may force bullpen transition
- - Extended recovery timeline (12-14 months)
- - Only 3 High-A appearances in 2026 before injury
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Yordys Valdes is a shortstop for the Chicago Cubs.
Player Overview
SS
Chicago Cubs