The 28-year-old Venezuelan has started turning some heads since the start of the 2017 season. The bullpen may be slacking, but Jose Martinez is most certainly not.
He will be starting today’s game against the Pirates in left field, a place we have not seen him yet this season. He has already scored four starts at first base, playing a total of ten games so far this season. He also spent 6 innings in right field this season.
Martinez was key in Monday’s win against the Pittsburgh Pirates. His RBI hit combined with a solo homerun from Kolten Wong earlier in the game made for a much-needed 2-1 victory after being swept by the Yankees. So far this season, Martinez has racked up 4 runs and 7 hits, usually coming at a crucial time.
Martinez came to the Cardinals in late May 2016, after spending time with an AAA affiliate of the Royals in Omaha. The Royals may not have needed him, but the Cardinals certainly do. Martinez stepped up while Matt Carpenter was out with an injured finger. He has been on a hot streak, so it makes sense to continue to use him while he has a hot bat.
The Cardinals need these hot at-bats, especially if the bullpen is struggling. If Jose Martinez keeps hitting like this, he might find himself starting more often.
You can meet Jose Martinez on Saturday, April 29th from 7-8pm at St. Louis Sports Co at Chesterfield Mall.
