2025 Player Outlook
After a failed brief attempt to revive his career as a starting pitcher, Puk returned to the bullpen where he delivered a lights-out performance for the remainder of 2024. His average fastball velocity jumped a full tick after the trade to Arizona, where he was used as a high-leverage reliever. He likely returns to that role in 2025, but it looks to be closer by committee rather than a solidified role for Puk.
Player News
A.J. Puk (elbow) will not require season-ending elbow surgery and will be re-evaluated in 2-3 weeks.
It’s arguably the best-case scenario after Puk sought multiple opinions after undergoing an MRI on his injured left elbow. The 30-year-old southpaw closer, who has been diagnosed with a flexor strain, will be shut down until at least mid-May before he’s potentially cleared to start a throwing program. There is no definitive return timetable at this juncture, but it certainly sounds like he’s going to pitch again this season. It’ll be Justin Martinez continuing to handle the closing duties in his absence.
A.J. Puk is seeking multiple opinions after undergoing an MRI on his left elbow.
Not good. There’s always a possibility Puk checks out completely fine, but it’s usually a major warning sign when a pitcher is seeking multiple opinions. We’re not going to speculate until there is a definitive diagnosis, but fantasy managers should prepare for the possibility of an extended absence. It’ll likely be Justin Martinez handling the closing duties for Arizona until further notice.
A.J. Puk (elbow) will undergo an MRI on Monday.
Arizona’s primary closer hit the injured list over the weekend with left elbow inflammation and will undergo further testing to determine the severity of the issue. There should be an official diagnosis and return timeline at some point in the coming days. Fantasy managers should prepare for the possibility of an extended absence. It’ll likely be Justin Martinez, who is currently dealing with fatigue, handling the bulk of the save chances for the Diamondbacks.
Diamondbacks placed LHP A.J. Puk on the 15-day injured list, retroactive to April 18, with left elbow inflammation.
No word yet on the severity of the issue, which will determine how much time Puk winds up missing. Fantasy managers should prepare for the possibility of an extended absence since it’s elbow-related. The 29-year-old lefty has been a key component of Arizona’s relief mix this season, recording four saves to go along with a strong 3.38 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 35/12 K/BB ratio across eight innings (eight appearances). There should be some clarity on his status in the coming days. His absence should lead to Justin Martinez handling the bulk of the save opportunities.
DFS Last 5
Date | Opponent | Pts |
---|---|---|
Apr 17th | @Marlins | 3.7 |
Apr 16th | @Marlins | 1.1 |
Apr 13th | Brewers | 7.1 |
Apr 9th | Orioles | 3.7 |
Apr 4th | @Nationals | 3.7 |