The Indians stockpiled shortstops in their 2018 international class, with seven of their eight highest bonuses going to players at that position. That included $500,000 for Martinez, a Dominican who was the top performer on Cleveland's Rookie-level Dominican Summer League team during his 2019 pro debut. His father Sandy caught for eight years in the Majors and his brother Sandy Jr. catches in the D-backs' system.
A switch-hitter, Martinez has a sound swing from both sides of the plate and has an extremely mature approach for his age. He manages the strike zone well, uses the entire field and has the bat speed and loft to develop into a 15-20 homer threat once he adds some needed strength. He's an average runner whose instincts allow him to play quicker than that on the bases.
Martinez's high baseball IQ also is evident in the field. With his quick hands, solid arm and good internal clock, he can make plays anywhere in the infield. He shuttled between shortstop, second base and third base in his first year as a pro.
