Toronto Blue Jays top ten prospects for 2020
By David Hill
5. Orelvis Martinez
Minors (RK): 163 plate appearances, .275/.352/.549, eight doubles, seven homers, 14 walks, 29 strikeouts
Yes, it is just the rookie level, and one cannot put much stock in those statistics, but the Toronto Blue Jays have to be excited with what they have seen in Orelvis Martinez thus far.
Martinez received the second largest bonus of any rookie in the 2018-19 international signing period, with the Blue Jays handing him $3.5 million to start his career. It was understandable why they would consider such an amount, as some scouts compared him to a young Adrian Beltre. Considering Beltre is a future Hall of Famer, that is high praise indeed.
It is easy to see why such comparisons would be made. An all around player, Martinez has displayed excellent power behind an extremely quick swing and a knack to make loud contact. He has already made some adjustments to his swing, as he moved his hands down, but may need to continue tinkering as he moves up the ladder. Defensively, Martinez has a strong arm, and shows average range at short. However, he may need to move to third long term, especially as his frame fills out.
Obviously, Martinez has a long way to go before he makes an impact upon the Blue Jays. Nonetheless, his professional debut was impressive, and it would not be a surprise to see the 18 year old begin 2020 in a full season affiliate. Should he continue to impress there, Martinez could be a top 30 prospect once the coming year is over.
Orelvis Martinez has been everything the Toronto Blue Jays hoped for in his first professional season. Now it is a matter of continuing his progress, and making his way up the ladder.