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ARLINGTON -- Cuban-born outfielder Leonys Martin made an indelible impression Wednesday during his introductory press conference as the Rangers' newest addition to the organization.
The 23-year-old smiled for the cameras as he donned his new Rangers jersey. He gave a lengthy opening speech that general manager Jon Daniels said spoke to Martin's humble demeanor.
Martin, who will debut in center field for Double-A Frisco on Thursday night, didn't shy away from saying what the day meant to him.
"Today is an unforgettable moment for myself," Martin said. "This is something I've always dreamed of, is to play at the highest level in the world, which is the Major Leagues. That was the idea, to get to the highest level of baseball. I'm very proud to be in this organization and have my dream come true."
Martin is the Rangers' most significant entry into the Cuban free-agent market -- the club invested $15.5 million over five years. Martin could be arbitration-eligible after the fourth year.
For now, the focus is on Martin leaving Cuba for the United States and getting adjusted. Neither he nor the Rangers would get into how Martin arrived in the States, but he is here with his father and girlfriend, which should make the transition easier.
"That was a big step for me," Martin said. "I'm happy. It will keep me from worrying about things, having them here. My father has always been somebody I looked up to and somebody who kept me on the right path in my career."
Martin was in Arizona working in extended spring training after arriving 10 days ago. He batted .438 (7-for-16) with three walks in five games.
"He did everything the [scouts] expected," Daniels said. "He gets on base. He has an intelligent approach at the top of the order. He has a line-drive approach. He showed he was a tough out. He stole bases, he bunted, he's a plus runner.
"We expected there to be some rust, but to his credit, he did very well. He faced young competition, but it's still live games. We're ready to give him the next challenge."
I wish they'd be more aggressive with pitching :\
This post was edited by txO4 on May 11 2011 04:56pm