In 2018, the Texas Rangers made an aggressive push to sign the “Japanese Babe Ruth,” pitcher/ designated hitter Shohei Ohtani. To everyone’s surprise, the Japanese superstar signed with the divisional rival Los Angeles Angels, forcing the Rangers to turn elsewhere. Thus, the signing of Cuban born speedster Julio Pablo Martinez. The Rangers signed the speedy outfielder to a $2.8 million deal with the remaining international bonus pool money, and thought they had struck gold.
Martinez has a smooth, left handed swing with good bat-to-ball skills at the plate. In the field, his plus speed allows him to play any of the three outfield positions, but has a below average arm.