Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Jose Berrios, Toronto Blue Jays right-handed pitcher, has been dealing with a significant elbow injury since late 2025. He was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his pitching elbow during pre-World Baseball Classic physicals in mid-March 2026. After beginning the season on the IL, Berrios attempted a minor league rehab assignment but experienced concerning setbacks including decreased velocity (approximately 3 mph drop), increased pain, and poor performance (17 ER in 14.1 IP). An MRI revealed inflammation and small changes to the initial injury. Surgery was scheduled with Dr. Keith Meister to address the stress fracture, with additional concern about possible ligament damage and loose bodies in the elbow. The injury timeline and severity remain uncertain, with potential for season-ending implications depending on surgical findings.
Strengths
- + Previously durable pitcher with no injury-related missed starts prior to late 2025
- + Organization proceeding with caution and seeking specialist care
- + Multiple comparable cases (Skubal, Diaz) showing recovery is possible
Weaknesses
- - Stress fracture in pitching elbow with ongoing inflammation
- - Significant velocity decline during rehab (3 mph drop)
- - Poor rehab performance: 17 ER in 14.1 IP
- - Increased pain during rehab outings
- - Possible ligament damage requiring repair
- - Possible loose bodies in elbow requiring surgical removal
- - Uncertain recovery timeline and potential season-ending status
- - Multiple elbow issues in different locations suggesting complex injury
- - Long layoff from competition
- - Inconsistent medical findings requiring multiple specialist consultations
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Cesar Berbesi is a shortstop for the Houston Astros.
Player Overview
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Houston Astros