Edgar Martinez

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Boston Red Sox #26 prospect in 2007
  The Red Sox decided in mid-2004 that Martinez' arm strength gave him a better chance of making it to the majors on the mound, and he has progressed quickly for a pitcher who spent most of his first six years in pro ball as a catcher. But his development slowed last year, and while Boston had plenty of bullpen holes, Martinez stayed in Double-A for the entire season. Lackadaisical conditioning was the biggest culprit, as he resembled former Boston folk hero Rich Garces by packing a lot more than his listed 222 pounds on a 6-foot frame. Because he wasn't in good shape, Martinez lost 2-3 mph off his fastball, pitching at 91-92 and touching 94. His secondary pitches still lack consistency, though his slider is an average pitch at times. He hasn't shown much feel for a changeup. Martinez still had success in Double-A working mainly with a plus fastball because of his command and deception. He's headed for Triple-A, and if he can do a better job of preparing physically and develop a reliable slider, he'll get the call to Boston.
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  Ranked Boston Red Sox #15 prospect in 2006
  Originally signed as a catcher, Martinez spent six years behind the plate and hit .223 before the Red Sox decided a career change was in order in mid-2004. Less than a year after becoming a pitcher, he reached Double-A, and he could work his way into the Boston bullpen in 2006. Martinez always showed a good arm as a catcher, and both that and his knowledge of how to set up hitters have translated well to the mound. He has a lively 93-94 mph fastball that tops out at 96. Though he's just 6 feet tall, he delivers his heat on a good downward angle. His command is solid considering his background, but it will have to get better for him to succeed in the majors. So will his secondary pitches, as he has thrown his slider and changeup for little more than a year. An intelligent pitcher, Martinez has proven to be a quick study and could begin 2006 in Triple-A with just 62 innings of experience.