Dodgers News: Russell Martin Talks Thrills of Pitching In A Big League Game
When the Dodgers won an 18-5 game over the weekend over the Arizona Diamondbacks, Russell Martin making a pitching appearance was a mere footnote. Surely, Cody Bellinger’s two-homer game and the rest of the offense grabbed major headlines. However, Martin’s act of heroism was not lost amongst anyone.
Now, Martin joined AM570 sports to talk about that glorious inning he threw over the weekend to close out a game for the Dodgers.
.@Dodgers @russellmartin55: "I can't remember having a better time on a baseball field. They told me protect your arm, be careful and I did. Part of me said I want to let one rip to see how hard I'm throwing on this radar gun" ? https://t.co/FhyHipJs0w
— AM 570 LA Sports (@AM570LASports) April 3, 2019
Martin said in his interview he’s waited his entire career for this moment.
I can’t remember having a better time on the baseball field than that moment. It only took me 1,612 games to get on the mound. They told me to be careful and I did and a part of me said i just want to let one loose.
Furthermore, Martin handled himself well on the bump. In fact, he made history. While topping out around 84 miles per hour – the other team’s catcher was giving up 61 mph gopher balls. The Dodgers’ catcher became the first position player to close out a win with a perfect frame since Willie Smith in 1963.
He’s said it before, but Martin is ecstatic to be back in Los Angeles in the Dodgers dugout.
Back in the city I wish I was here for my whole career. I really love my time here and now I had a second chance. Now I feel like this team is really close to winning a championship so I want to get over that hump.
The act garnered some laughs, but Martin displayed humility and willingness to be a true team guy. More often than not, this is the type of thing that builds some clubhouse chemistry and breeds a winning culture.
