Rising star J.P. Martinez of the Texas Rangers is set for a big league promotion, thanks to his standout offensive season.
The anticipated move has yet to receive an official confirmation from the Rangers, who are expected to make the announcement following a scheduled off day on Thursday. The imminent promotion necessitates a corresponding roster move, given that Martinez is not currently listed on the 40-man roster.
This significant step forward has been a culmination of years of hard work for Martinez, who entered the Texas Rangers’ fold in 2018 as an international free agent hailing from Cuba. His signing bonus of $2.8 million underscored the high expectations set for his future.
The 2023 season has proven to be a watershed moment for Martinez, highlighted by exceptional offensive performances, particularly during his time with Round Rock. A brief stint for injury rehab assignments saw him showcase his talents across five games split between Double-A Frisco and High Class-A Hickory.
Although not ranked among the Top 30 prospects, Martinez distinguishes himself as one of the organization’s standout hitters, boasting a batting average surpassing .300 for the season. His slash line of .311/.435/.558/.993 across 72 minor-league games in 2023 is a testament to his consistent contributions, featuring an impressive 12 home runs and 56 RBI.
Martinez’s display of power is further evidenced by two instances of 15 home runs each, along with a career-best 63 RBI during the 2019 season.
Throughout his career, Martinez has showcased his versatility by fielding all three outfield positions, with center field and left field dominating his playing time. The ongoing season has seen him excel in center (37 games), left (16 games), and right (13 games), solidifying his reputation as a well-rounded outfielder.
As Martinez’s promotion to the majors looms large, the Texas Rangers and baseball enthusiasts alike eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the young prospect’s journey. His remarkable offensive achievements and adaptability on the field position him as a promising asset for the team’s future endeavors.