The man who helped the Red Sox break the Curse of the Bambino is the 80th inductee into the Baseball Hall of Immortals.
Pedro Martinez was not built like a modern pitcher. He was neither tall nor muscular, yet he dominated the mound during his 18 year career like few pitchers in the mondern era.
Martinex posted a winning record in 16 of his 17 full seasons, reaching a hugh in 1999 when he led the league with 23 wins to just 4 losses, good for an .852 winning percentage (also leading the league). He would also finish first in ERA (2.07) and strikeouts (313) on his way to ghis second Cy Young Award.
During his time in Boston, Martinez was ridiculously good. In seven years he won 117 games to just 37 losses – a .760 winning percentage – along with a 2.52 ERA and an average of 243 strikeouts a year. During this stretch he would win 2 Cy Young Awards and finish 2nd two other times.
Following his time in Boston, Martinez signed with the Mets. A good first season was followed by 3 years of arm troubles.
Martinez retired following the 2009 season with a 219-100 record, a .687 winning percentage, good for 6th all-time. His 3,154 strikeouts rank him 13th in MLB history.
The man who hugged my Mom and made her smile on her birthday is an Immortal.
For some background on what this is, check out the introduction post here.
