Texas Rangers: Is the signing of Chris Martin a good move?

The Texas Rangers are bringing in another pitcher. Chris Martin, who’s spent the last two years pitching in Japan is returning to the Major League Baseball for the first time since 2015. This time, he’s hoping to have a successful stint.

Martin, 31, is on a mission to find success in the majors. His last run in the majors was mediocre. In 2015, he finished 0-2 with 5.66 ERA in 24 appearances. He then went to Japan where he was able to turn it around and regain his form. The Texas Rangers are so impressed with his performance in Japan, they decided to give him a chance to play in Arlington. After all, Arlington is the land of opportunity for players that have had derailing careers.

Ken Rosenthal announced the signing. The deal is reportedly a two-year, $4 million. However, for the moment, it’s pending a physical. But are the Rangers making a good move bringing in Martin?

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Absolutely. It’s not the first time they’ve brought in a pitcher from Japan who’s looking to revive his career. They did it with Colby Lewis and it worked out very well. They even did it with Tony Barnette and it’s been going well. So hopefully, it’ll go well with Martin.

Martin had a 1.12 ERA in his two-year stint in Japan. Striking out 91 batters and walking only 13 is amazing. The Rangers can really use that kind of skill. Of course, it’s not the same in Major League Baseball, so he’s going to have to step it up in Spring Training. He’s looking to earn a spot in the bullpen.

Martin grew up in Arlington, having played baseball at Arlington High School. This is a great opportunity for him to make an impact in the city where he grew up. It’s his third try to revive his career. At one point, he quit baseball because of a shoulder injury but then decided to return and he embarked on a long and tough journey to make it to the majors. He finally made it to the majors in 2014 but it didn’t go well. Here he is again and hopefully, in Martin’s case, the third time is the charm.

This is definitely a good move by the Rangers. As far as if it’s going to work out or not, we’ll have to wait and see.