Pittsburgh Pirates: Double-A Core Four Off to a Hot Start

First baseman Mason Martin

Martin is another hitter with big-time power potential, but also big-time concerns over the swing-and-miss. While he is striking out at a concerning 33.9% through his first 62 PAs this season, everything else has gone exceedingly well for Martin in his first time facing Double-A pitching.

Through 62 PAs Martin is hitting for a .294/.403/.588 slash line to go with a 167 wRC+. His power has been on full display with a .294 ISO and a 15.7% extra base hit rate, having mashed 3 home runs, 4 doubles and a triple.

Martin has also continued to be a patient hitter which is something he has always done. He is drawing walks at a terrific 12.9% rate. The lowest walk rate he has ever had during a stop in the minors was 10.4% at Low-A in 2018.

If Martin can continue to hit for plus power, as well as utilizing an improved hit tool that will help him overcome his strikeout problems. Continuing to draw walks at 12%+ rate will also help Martin offset his strikeouts.

At 21-years-old Martin could still have plenty of room for improvement with strikeouts as well. If Martin continues to mash Double-A pitching he should find himself at Triple-A by the end of the season.