Cardinals pitcher Carlos Martinez performed well in the Dominican winter league this offseason. The right-hander, who will compete for a spot in the Cardinals' rotation this spring, posted a 2.25 ERA with 26 strikeouts and just two talks in 24 innings (five starts). He even won three times, per MLB.com.
"I feel mentally, emotionally really good that I've had that chance to work real hard there and bring that to spring training," Martinez said. "I feel like, yes, this is my spot. I feel like I'm the pitcher I'm meant to be, and I have experience now. I'll be ready."
Martinez added he will dedicate "this year and every year" to fallen teammate and friend Oscar Taveras, who was killed in a car accident in October. Martinez will wear Taveras' No. 18.
"I spoke to [general manager] John Mozeliak, and I'm thankful they've given me the opportunity to wear it," Martinez said. "[Taveras] was a friend, a brother, and it's an honor for me to be able to wear it. I'll wear it for the rest of my career."