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The Blue Jays introduced their prized catch at a news conference in Toronto Thursday. General Manager Alex Anthopoulos said that while the team initially had no desire to upgrade their catching, when Russell Martin became available that changed everything.
The newest member of the Toronto Blue Jays was officially introduced to media Thursday afternoon.
Russell Martin, a three time all-star, says joining the Jays, a team he watched growing up, is surreal: “For me, the opportunity to play at home and the contract that was offered made a lot of sense to me.”
Martin’s arrival makes for a crowded catching corps as he joins Dioner Navarro and Josh Thole. Navarro could be on the trading block.
Alex Anthopoulos, General Manager, Toronto Blue Jays: “This was not about this position, it was that he happened to be available and this was great for us.”
Martin sported a .290 batting average with 11 home runs and 67 RBI’s last year. But it’s his history of winning that made him a very attrative addition to the team.
Anthopoulos: “The winning, the all-star games, Silver Sluggers, Gold Gloves votes. the list goes on and on.”
Martin: “I will hit anywhere, put me anywhere. I will put the ball in play and play baseball the right way.”
That is exactly what Martin did last year.
Martin had an on base percentage of just over 400 — a career high and among the major league leaders.
Martin brings skills both on the field and in the clubhouse, but the players to benefit most from the recent signing are the Jays’ pitchers.
Martin is known for his defensive prowess behind the plate. During his stint with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Martin gunned down over 70 base runners.
The catcher is an expert when it comes to pitch framing — something Jays hurlers will be very grateful for.
Martin: “My job is to take care of the pitching staff, whether rookie or veteran really doesn’t matter. I want them to perform the best that they can.”
The Pirates made the playoffs in both of martin’s seasons with the team. He hopes he can get his new team to the post-season. A feat they haven’t accomplished since 1993.
