PROSPECT: Orelvis Martinez, SS, Toronto Blue Jays
ERIC CROSS' LATEST PROSPECT RANKING: #7
CALL-UP ETA: May
ANALYSIS: From April 14 to April 21, Martinez launched six balls out of the yard. Across the entire season, he is riding a .300/.364/.622 with seven total home runs and 22 RBI. In addition, he had an equally impressive 15-game hitting streak earlier in April. Martinez has even lowered his K rate from 26.8% to 21.9% but lowered his walk rate from 10.6% to 7.3% compared to last season.
His bat is ready for the major leagues, but his defense is not. Martinez has committed seven errors in just 19 games at Triple-A this season. Last year, he had similar struggles, as he committed four in 26 games at Triple-A. While his defense may not be the sole reason for him not being promoted, the Blue Jays are opting to be patient with their budding star.
However, the Blue Jays have had a pretty mediocre start to the season, and they are not where they want to be in the standings. Toronto needs a spark, and Martinez’s bat can provide that.
6 home runs in 7 games for Orelvis Martinez🔥 pic.twitter.com/5vNKgq7fUo
— The Call Up | An MLB Prospect Podcast (@The_CallUpPod) April 21, 2024
The designated hitter spot is primarily occupied by veteran Justin Turner, who has a strong .309 AVG with 12 RBI. The Blue Jays have been able to have a “revolving door” at second and third base, which has kept them afloat for the time being. However, Martinez’s bat is much more potent than Isiah Kiner-Falefa's and Davis Schneider's, and if Toronto is serious about competing, it can swallow his weaker defense for his outstanding offense.
Martinez will be promoted this season; there is no doubt about that. His bat is more than capable of handling major league pitchers. If you have a roster spot stash open, stash Martinez.
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