MLB Spring Training: Leonys Martin, A.J. Pollock Deliver Key Home Runs

Every morning, I will recap the previous day’s notable prospect performances, both at the plate and on the mound. As I unveil my prospect lists over the upcoming weeks, these daily recaps will offer advanced insight into both my organizational and overall rankings.

Although there has already been a slew of roster cuts league-wide, there are still plenty of prospects battling for jobs and hoping to leave a lasting impression on their future manager.

Here is a look at Tuesday’s notable offensive performances by a prospect.

Leonys Martin, Texas Rangers

Leonys Martin, the Rangers’ No. 6 prospect, had an all-around solid game on Tuesday. Signed out of Cuba last May, the outfielder finished the game 2-for-2 with a two-run home run and stolen base to keep his name in the mix for a spot in the Rangers outfield.

Appearing in 13 games this spring, Martin is currently batting .250 (6-for-24) with two home runs and two stolen bases.

Alex Liddi, Seattle Mariners

Alex Liddi continued to swing a hot bat on Tuesday, going 2-for-5 with a double and RBI. Just as he showed during his September call-up last season, the 6'4", 225-pound corner infielder has lots of power—so much that his average suffers as a result.

So, don't read too far into his spring training statistics. Currently sporting a .394 average, seven of Liddi’s 13 hits have gone for extra bases and he’s struck out eight times. Considering that incumbent third baseman Kyle Seager is also raking this spring, Liddi’s path to regular playing time may be blocked to begin the season.

A.J. Pollock, Arizona Diamondbacks

A.J. Pollock, the Diamondbacks’ No. 7 prospect, has made the most of his limited opportunities this spring. On Tuesday afternoon, the right-handed hitting outfield connected for his first spring training home—a walk-off against the San Francisco Giants.

Pollock’s ability to get on base (.452 OBP) has been especially impressive thus far, as he coaxed five walks compared to just two strikeouts.

Tyler Pastornicky, Atlanta Braves

Tyler Pastornicky raised his spring batting average to .140 on Tuesday with a 1-for-3 performance. Locked in a light-hitting battle with Andrelton Simmons to be the Braves’ Opening Day shortstop, Pastornicky is now 6-for-43 this spring and is yet to collect an extra-base hit.