A.J. Puk Optimistic for Early May Return After Elbow Surgery

Diamondbacks pitcher A.J. Puk (elbow) believes he could make his season debut by early May, following an internal brace procedure last June for a UCL injury. While this less invasive surgery offers a quicker return than Tommy John, his timeline is considered optimistic, and the team's shared outlook is unclear. Puk expects to be cleared for mound work by late March, which should provide a clearer picture. He is a strong candidate for the closer role upon his return to Arizona's bullpen.