Adrian Martinez getting second look with Oakland A’s

Adrian Martinez has made one major league appearance in his career. That outing for the Oakland A’s on May 10 resulted in a victory and plenty of memories for Martinez. It also made him one of the most valuable members of the team this year, as his 0.4 bWAR is still tied for ninth amongst everyone that has played for the A’s thus far.

Given his success in that outing, it has been a surprise that he only had that one appearance. The A’s have cycled through various arms, both in the rotation and bullpen, yet Martinez has not gotten the call. One had to imagine that would change at some point.

Adrian Martinez finally getting a second outing

That second chance is finally coming on Thursday. According to Martin Gallegos, Martinez will be called up to take the mound against the Mariners in Seattle.

Martinez had as good of a debut as the A’s could have hoped for. He held the Tigers scoreless over his 5.1 innings, scattering four hits without a walk while striking out three batters. The Tigers may not have much of an offense, but it was still an impressive showing.

It is also a much different performance than what Martinez had put together in Las Vegas. He has a 5.63 ERA and a 1.406 WHiP in his 64 innings, striking out 73 batters with 23 walks and 13 homers allowed. Those middling at best numbers are likely what kept Martinez in Triple-A.

Yet, there is no discounting that success in his first major league appearance. The A’s need to find arms to fill out the rotation this year and into the future. While Martinez may not be a top of the rotation caliber arm, he could be a solid option as a fifth starter. It is time that he gets that chance.

The Oakland A’s are bringing Adrian Martinez back to the majors. It is long past time that he received a second look in their rotation.