This week, the Cleveland Guardians announced that they were sending down outfielder/designated hitter Johnathan Rodriguez.
It wasn’t really his fault: he barely got any playing time, and the Guardians needed some versatility and a spark.
The guy they called up, Angel Martinez, has provided both since he was included on the roster.
He has been the energetic, athletic player this team has needed for a while.
“Cleveland #Guardians 23yr old switch-hitting OF Angel Martinez showed out on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball again Saturday in the club’s win over the Royals. First two games: 5-7 2(2B) 3RBI .714 AVG,” Guardians Prospective posted on X.
Cleveland #Guardians 23yr old switch-hitting OF Angel Martinez showed out on both the defensive and offensive side of the ball again Saturday in the clubs win over the Royals.
First two games:
5-7 2(2B) 3RBI .714 AVG #GuardsBall pic.twitter.com/eTa5HGjGur
— Guardians Prospective (@CleGuardPro) April 13, 2025
Some veterans are yet to leave their mark on the 2025 Guardians, but Martinez did it in no time.
He has two extra-base hits in just two games and three RBI.
He also made a nice grab in center field, a position he mastered in the offseason in anticipation of a possible move there.
Martinez gives the Guardians solutions in the infield and in the outfield, too.
He is no Gold Glover, but he can hold his own at second base, shortstop, third base, and the three outfield spots.
As long as he keeps hitting, the Guardians will find playing time for him.
His emergence puts even more pressure on the struggling members of the lineup, notably Brayan Rocchio.
Martinez was performing well in Triple-A and earned his call-up fair and square.
He has been a doubles machine this year, with eight in 10 games between Columbus and Cleveland.
The Guardians will certainly take the production for as long as it lasts.
NEXT: Stephen Vogt Raves About Guardians Pitcher After Win On Saturday
