Adrian Martinez impresses in Oakland A’s debut
By David Hill
It did not take long for Adrian Martinez to make his debut with the Oakland A’s. After seven years in the Padres’ system, he just needed one month to get his chance, called up to the majors as the 27th man in their doubleheader with the Tigers on Tuesday.
At the same time, it was fair not to expect much from Martinez. He finally made his way to Triple-A for the first time last season. In his five outings at Triple-A this year, he had posted a 7.45 ERA and a 1.603 WHiP over his 19.1 innings. While he struck out 25 batters, he also issued nine walks and allowed four homers. This was not a profile that predicated success.
Adrian Martinez outperforms expectations for Oakland A’s
But that is why the games are played on the diamond instead of on paper. Martinez had an impressive debut, shutting out Detroit over 5.1 innings to pick up the win. He allowed just four hits, and while he uncorked a wild pitch and hit a batter, he did not walk anyone as he notched three strikeouts.
His future had been questioned when he was acquired by the A’s. His fastball sits in the mid 90s, and he has a plus change that drops off of a table, but he lacked a consistent third offering. Add in his shaky at best command, and Martinez was viewed as a back of the rotation option or a bullpen option.
One start certainly does not a career make. It will not answer the different questions surrounding his future. However, this does give the A’s reason to hope that he can be that back of the rotation option he was projected to be, and potentially, a part of their team moving forward.
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Adrian Martinez had an impressive showing in his major league debut. There may be reason to hope that he can be a part of the Oakland A’s future.