Carlos Martinez took some time out of his schedule recently to answer some questions for MLB Draft Guide. Martinez, from Nogales (CA), is a Hawaii commit and plans to play for the ABD Bulldogs with Tanner Rahier in the spring.
Matt Grabusky: How old were you when you started playing baseball?
Carlos Martinez: I started to play baseball when I moved to the states at the age of 6.
MG: At what point did you realize that a future in the sport was a real possibility?
CM: I started to realize that a future in baseball was a possibility my freshman year. I recieved college letters.
MG: What do you feel are the strengths and weaknesses of your game?
CM: I believe I have a good baseball IQ, I am a leader on the field. I am a contact hitter with some pop through out all fields. Weakness, I would like to throw a bit harder then I do. That is being worked on.
MG: Is there a player in the Majors who you would compare yourself to?
CM: Dustin Pedrioa. We are both small but play with alot of guts!!
MG: Who has had the most influence on your baseball career?
CM: My dad and my brother, they showed me the game while in front of the garage. Thats where they taught me how to play and influenced me the most.
MG: Your cousins, Maicer and Cesar Izturis, play in the Majors. Have you learned anything from their experiences?
CM: Yes, getting to the majors is easy, its staying there thats hard. When you’re on the field, it is your job, so you conduct yourself in the right manner and always be humble. Also, have fun with the game.
MG: What has been the highlight of your baseball career to this point?
CM: At this point, committing to the University of Hawaii. It was very emotional for me because I never thought I that I could be fortunate in life to play for such a great program in a beautiful state.
MG: What are your goals in baseball going forward?
CM: Hopefully, go to college or get drafted. I figure its a win -win situation. I’d like to get drafted and then play pro ball in Venezuela, but id also love to be a Rainbow Warrior.
MG: Who are the best players that you have been on the field with?
CM: A good friend of mine named Chris Rivera. I feel very comfertable with him at short. I know he will be there on any flip I give him from second base.
MG: If baseball ended tomorrow, you would?
CM: Try to restart it. Teach it to people, or become a history teacher.
MG: What is something that baseball fans would be surprised to learn about Carlos Martinez?
CM: I like to draw and paint. It relaxes me. Also, I work at Hollister at the moment.
I would like to thank Carlos for answering questions for MLB Draft Guide and our readers.
