in MLB Articles

Martinez’ bat is carrying the Yank’s offense

When the New York Yankees went out and brought back Tino Martinez in the off-season, many in the media believed it was purely a feel good story, something nice for the fans. It was assumed that Jason Giambi would be at first base and Martinez a defensive replacement in the late innings. It hasn’t exactly worked out that way. On Wednesday night, Martinez homered in his fifth straight game, playing like it’s 1998 all over again. The man who filled Don Mattingly’s shoes in the mid-90’s has looked every bit like a player still in his prime. It’s remarkable to think that he didn’t even figure into the Devil Rays’ plans anymore.

Meanwhile, Giambi is hitting below the Mendoza line and was even asked to go to the minors. It’s painfully obvious to any acute observer that Giambi is but a shadow of the player he was when steroids were pumping through his body. No one expects Martinez to continue on the pace that he’s currently on. But don’t count on New York putting Giambi back in the starting lineup on a regular basis until they’re confident he won’t hurt the team. It’s a long way from being up 3-0 in the AL Championship Series for the so-called Bronx Bombers.