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Could Corbin Martin Flourish in the Bullpen?

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Diamondbacks
By Michael McDermott | Last updated 2/23/23

Corbin Martin was once the centerpiece in the Zack Greinke deal in July 2019. A pitcher who could hit 98 MPH with an above-average spin rate, two very good breaking pitches, and a changeup, Martin was considered a potential top of the rotation prospect when the Diamondbacks acquired him. However he has not been able to turn that talent into results, as the former second rounder has been hit hard as a starter in the big leagues.

Last year, he made the Opening Day roster as a long reliever but spent most of the year as a starter with Triple-A Reno. He made two starts last season, allowing five runs in eight innings with seven strikeouts and six walks. A year later, he's on the roster bubble and trying to make the team as a reliever.

So far this spring, Martin has been up to 97 MPH on his 4-seam fastball.

Seeing his fastball not only hit the upper 90s, but also holding its line very well at the top of the zone is an encouraging sign. Martin's entire arsenal starts with the fastball, which he threw 55% of the time in 2022, and then going to his slider and curveball for swings and misses. As a reliever not only can he simplify his arsenal, but could experience a small velocity bump throwing only max effort. Considering all the additions the team has made, a permanent move to the bullpen for Martin could end up turning into the best move towards shoring up the bullpen.

Even with the potential upside as a reliever, there isn't much of a projection towards how Martin would do in a specialized relief role. His career in relief consists of seven appearances in low leverage situations or long relief. With more success coming out of the bullpen, his role could increase as the season goes along.

In the event Martin does not make the Opening Day roster, they can send him to Reno without exposing him to waivers. He still has one option remaining, with a fourth option granted due to not accruing five full seasons after being drafted. That gives the D-backs flexibility to send him up and down to Reno for one more season.

Saturday's Split Squad Notes

Prospect Drey Jameson and Ryne Nelson will start the two split squad games on Saturday. Jameson will pitch at Hohokam Stadium against the Oakland Athletics and Ryne Nelson will face the Rockies at Salt River Fields. Andrew Chafin, Jeurys Familia, Miguel Castro, and Carlos Vargas are also expected to pitch Saturday.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Diamondbacks and was syndicated with permission.

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