Impact Hummel's speculation on Martinez's early-season prospects was prompted by a reader question regarding the possible ramifications of manager Mike Shildt's recent comment that the right-hander is losing ground by not being on the field. Shildt seems to be alluding to the No. 5 starter role, which Martinez has been ticketed for but hasn't necessarily locked down. Hummel points out that offseason acquisition Kwang-Hyun Kim is a viable candidate for the back-end rotation job as well, and that Martinez could once again open the season as the closer if Giovanny Gallegos' ongoing travel delay that currently sees him grounded in Mexico extends much longer.
JULY 7, 2020 • ROTOWIRE
