The Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Mets are back at it Saturday, May 9, for the second game of their three-game set at Chase Field. But it's what happened off the field that has fans buzzing — and it involves a flame-throwing right-hander making serious noise on the comeback trail.

Justin Martinez, who underwent his second Tommy John surgery last year, stepped on the mound for his first bullpen session since the procedure, and the results were nothing short of "electric," according to manager Torey Lovullo. Martinez's fastball was already sitting in the 96-99 mph range, a clear sign that his elite arm strength is still intact.

"He's in a good spot. I'm really happy for him," Lovullo said, after Martinez threw the bullpen Friday at Salt River Fields.

While the velocity is an encouraging sign for the young pitcher, the D-backs are taking a patient approach. Martinez still has a long road ahead before he's ready to return from the injured list. The team is targeting a return sometime in the final two months of the season, but first, Martinez will need to complete 15 bullpen sessions before potentially beginning a minor-league rehab assignment.

In other injury updates, first baseman Carlos Santana is set to play Saturday and Sunday for Triple-A Reno, which could mean a return to the big league roster soon after. "He's progressing to a point where we'll probably have a conversation at some point in the next 24 to 36 hours about where he's at," Lovullo said.

Meanwhile, infielder Jordan Lawlar will undergo follow-up imaging on his fractured wrist next week. If all goes well, he could begin ramping up activities, including hitting, shortly after.

On the field, the Diamondbacks are looking to build momentum after a strong showing in Friday's series opener. With key players working their way back and Martinez's arm looking as electric as ever, there's plenty of reason for optimism in the desert.