Diamondbacks get huge Justin Martinez injury update

While Martinez’s fastball didn’t quite reach the triple-digit velocity he was known for last season — when he averaged over 100 mph — it was a marked improvement from his last big-league appearance on April 30, when his velocity hovered around 95 mph. A rival scout confirmed that Martinez hit 97 mph with one pitch and sat 98–99 mph with the rest during Saturday’s outing, showing significant progress in terms of arm strength and overall health.

D-Backs could get their closer back soon

That increased velocity is particularly encouraging for a Diamondbacks bullpen that’s been dealing with its fair share of inconsistency, with a revolving door of arms trying to lock down late-inning roles. As noted in this week’s Closer Report, Arizona is still working to solidify its bullpen hierarchy — and Martinez could play a key role in that process once he’s fully ready.

The team is now debating whether to activate Martinez ahead of their high-profile series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, which begins Monday, or send him to Triple-A Reno for one more rehab outing on Tuesday before bringing him back in time for the following weekend’s series against the St. Louis Cardinals. Lovullo suggested the latter option may be the more likely scenario.

Martinez’s potential return could offer a major boost to Arizona’s bullpen depth and late-inning firepower, particularly with the team still evaluating closer responsibilities. The D-backs have been piecing together save opportunities using a mix of arms, and while some like Paul Sewald and Kevin Ginkel have been reliable, Martinez adds another dynamic element with elite velocity and swing-and-miss potential.

Arizona’s pitching staff as a whole is entering a key stretch, with ace Zac Gallen set to take the mound this week against the Colorado Rockies. Gallen, who is 7-1 with a 2.59 ERA in 15 career starts against Colorado, will look to rebound from a rough outing against the Dodgers on May 11. With Gallen stabilizing the rotation and Martinez nearing a return, the D-backs could be lining up reinforcements at just the right time.

For now, the club will continue to monitor Martinez’s progress closely. Whether his return comes against the Dodgers or Cardinals, his reentry into the bullpen could prove pivotal in Arizona’s quest to stay competitive in the NL West.