The Arizona Diamondbacks have received some news regarding their talented left-handed pitcher, A.J. Puk, who has been diagnosed with a flexor strain, as reported by Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic. This injury will require Puk to refrain from throwing for the next 2-3 weeks, during which he will undergo a thorough reevaluation to assess the situation further. Fortunately, the medical team is optimistic and does not anticipate that this injury will necessitate any surgical intervention, which is a relief for both Puk and the team.

While this news is moderately positive, it follows a concerning period where Puk sought multiple opinions regarding his elbow injury. After being placed on the 15-day injured list on April 19, he quickly underwent imaging, which heightened fears about a potential surgical procedure. Thankfully, it appears that the worst-case scenario has been avoided, allowing the Diamondbacks to keep their hopes alive for Puk’s recovery.

However, it’s clear that Puk’s recovery will take time, and he is expected to be sidelined for an extended period. The earliest he can resume throwing is likely in mid-May. Following that, he will need several weeks to build up his strength and regain his form. Consequently, it is unlikely that he will return to an MLB mound before June, and there is a strong possibility that he may remain out well past the All-Star Break. Puk’s history includes a previous Tommie John surgery that he underwent in 2018 while he was still a rising prospect in the Oakland Athletics system.

Since being acquired from the Miami Marlins at last year’s trade deadline, Puk has been a standout performer for the Diamondbacks. He recorded an impressive 1.32 ERA with 43 strikeouts over just 27 1/3 innings during the latter part of the previous season. This year, he has continued that trend, pitching an additional eight innings with three earned runs and striking out 12 batters. His contributions have included four saves and two holds, during which he did not relinquish a lead during the initial three weeks of the season.

With Puk out of action, the pressure intensifies on Justin Martinez, who must now solidify his position as Torey Lovullo’s premier option in late-game situations. Martinez has showcased his skills with 10 innings pitched, yielding only two runs while notching 11 strikeouts and boasting a remarkable 61.9% ground ball rate. Other key players in the setup role include Shelby Miller, Kevin Ginkel, Jalen Beeks, and Ryan Thompson, who will be relied upon more heavily during Puk’s absence.