A late addition to the American League roster for the All-Star Game was Cuban-American right-hander Nick Martínez of the Tampa Bay Rays. After being regarded by many as the ace of the Tampa Bay Rays this season,
The righty was inexplicably left off the American League All-Star roster by MLB. His omission was a major injustice until he was added. His addition brought the number of players of Cuban heritage in this year’s Midsummer Classic to nine.
The hurler has a sterling 7-2 win-loss, is third in the American League with a 2.61 earned run average and sports an immaculate 1.13 WHIP. In 100 innings pitched the native of Miami has only allowed 29 earned runs and batters hit a paltry .249 against Martínez.
How does it feel? You got the news a little late, but you’re here nonetheless.
Yes, I’m here regardless. Honestly, I’m very humbled that I was selected, and I’m very proud to be here representing the Tampa Bay Rays.
There are nine Cubans here, and among them are two Cuban-Americans—you and Shea Langeliers. What does it mean to represent Cuba...?
Well, there are six Cuban-born players, and with Shea and me that makes eight altogether, right? Baseball is such an important part of Cuba, and I’m also very proud to represent the Cuban-American community.
How would you describe your season so far? It looks like it’s been the best of your career. Earlier in your career you worked as both a starter and a reliever, but Tampa Bay put you in the rotation and you’ve done nothing but start.
They’ve helped me a lot—mentally and physically. They’ve helped me attack the strike zone while maintaining an aggressive mindset, throwing strikes, and staying on the attack.
There are several Rays players here as well. What does it mean to share this moment with them?
It’s great. We’re playing well, we’re battling for first place right now, and hopefully we can finish the season in first place.