Toronto Blue Jays prospect have major role change and is thriving
Photo credit: milb.com/dunedin
The Toronto Blue Jays organization is full of uplifting and breakout stories at the moment. From the Dominican Summer League all the way to the major league roster, there's no shortage of inspiring performances and emerging talent throughout the system.
Still, few stories are as exciting as what Colby Martin is currently doing in Dunedin, where he's turning heads as a hard-throwing reliever.
Blue Jays prospect thrives as a reliever.
Damon from Blue Jays Nation writes that
Martin only began pitching full-time last season, a remarkable twist in his journey. Originally a second baseman, he spent time at several Division III programs before finding a home at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia.
There, he earned All-American honours at second base in 2021. After missing the 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery, he returned in 2023 and reclaimed his All-American status as an infielder.
"Martin decided to go back to school and hone in on pitching even more, landing at Southeastern University. Martin posted a 4.41 ERA across 16 innings while punching out 31 hitters and topping out at 102 MPH. His perseverance paid off as the Toronto Blue Jays selected him in the 16th round of the 2024 draft." -Damon
Martin made his professional debut just weeks after being selected in the draft, appearing in nine games for the Dunedin Blue Jays. While it was learning experience, he posted a 7.27 ERA during that initial stint.
"To say walks were an issue would be an understatement - he walked 29.2% of the batters he faced in 2024. Of the 215 pitches he wound up throwing, 110 of them were balls. He threw more balls than strikes. His elite stuff wouldn't be of much use if he couldn't control them worth a lick." -Damon
What comes next for Martin is still uncertain, but a promotion to Vancouver could be on the horizon. His electric arsenal has already led to standout swing-and-miss numbers, showcasing his potential. While there's still plenty of development ahead, particularly in honouring his control and command, Martin is showing signs of evolving into a future high-leverage, shutdown reliever.
Previously on Blue Jays Insider
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JUIN 13 | 1424 ANSWERS Toronto Blue Jays prospect have major role change and is thriving Do you think Blue Jays prospect Colby Martin has a future in the MLB someday? |
yes | 1084 | 76.1 % |
no | 340 | 23.9 % |
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