Nick Martini Homers Twice On Opening Day
8 months agoCincinnati Reds designated hitter Nick Martini was 2-for-5 with two home runs in Thursday's 8-2 Opening Day win over the Nationals. Hitting out of the eighth spot in the lineup, the lefty also had five RBI and 2 runs scored. The former seventh-round MLB draft pick is projected to be the Reds' DH against RHP, and has produced some nice power numbers in the past. Martini hit six long balls and had a 19.4% HR/FB% with a 10.5% Barrel% last season in limited action (72 AB). He also showed a high contact rate of 84.6% and a low K% of 19.0% in 2023, both better than league average. The 33-year-old blasted four home runs in just 36 spring at-bats as well. With injuries aplenty to the Reds lineup he could get regular playing time and is already in a position to exceed his five home run ATC projection for 2024. The power alone makes him worthy of a roster spot in deeper leagues, but the excitement and momentum may have to be put on hold until Sunday, as the Reds have a day off Friday and face lefty Patrick Corbin on Saturday.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN