Washington has purchased the contract of right-handed reliever Rafael Martin from his Mexican League team, Saltillo. ESPN's Jorge Arangure was the first to break the news (via Twitter), and said the Nationals "agreed to terms" with Martin for a deal worth $450K a "couple weeks ago." MLB.com's Bill Ladson tweeted that Martin just passed his physical today, which may have been the reason for the delay in announcing the move.
Martin, 26, posted a 4.12 ERA in 63 1/3 innings for Saltillo last season and recorded 65 strikeouts. Ladson reported that Martin will start the season in Double or Triple-A, and that the Nats see the reliever as a possible set-up man behind Drew Storen. Ladson also said the Mariners and Yankees had been interested in acquiring Martin.
Seems like quite a signing. Looking forward to seeing him this season!
“Martin, 26, posted a 4.12 ERA in 63 1/3 innings for Saltillo”
Though he got “peppered” in Saltillo, if he throws mustard, he should ketchup… oh I relish the thought.
interesting depth signing. i like the fact that they see him as their future set-up man for Storen. Makes it sound even beter in fact. a relief power arm thats only 26, good sign rizzo.
FYI: BA reported this in their transactions listing a few days ago.