Throughout the offseason, it has seemed like a strong possibility that Cuban import Leonys Martin would compete for a starting spot on the 2012 Texas Rangers in center field, and it seemed he would definitely be on the big-league squad.
Now that's not so certain, judging by the comments of manager Ron Washington.
Martin hit .295 in 73 games in the minors, with time spent in the rookie league, Double-A and Triple-A. He had 42 RBIs with four home runs and stole 19 bags with 27 walks. In eight big-league at-bats in September, he hit .375 with a double.
He's said to have above average range in center field as well as a good arm and he's said to have adequate power, especially to the gaps, for a speedy, rangy centerfielder.
But Washington said he might not be ready for the big leagues this season, after all.
“He just needs to play — I hope from this camp he’ll learn how the game is supposed to be played and about being a pro,” Washington said.
