Mariners Analysis: Top 5 First Round Picks in M’s History

#4 – Tino Martinez – 1B – Rd. 1 Pick 14 in 1988

Some might argue that Tino Martinez doesn’t deserve a spot on this list, but his contributions in 1995 merit recognition. Also, my mother had a disturbing high-school crush on Tino in the 90’s, and she would be furious if I neglected to give him his due.

Martinez had a spectacular college career at the University of Tampa, and he made his big league debut in 1990 with Seattle. He spent the first six years of his career with the Mariners, hitting .265 with 88 home runs and 312 RBI. His best season with the M’s was 1995, when he slashed .293/.369/.551 with 31 homers and 111 RBI. He was one of the key cogs in the Mariners’ attack, and was a big reason why they made their improbable run to the postseason.

Tino was traded to the New York Yankees prior to the 1996 season, and he flourished in the Bronx. Martinez hit .276 with 192 home runs and 739 RBI whilst wearing pinstripes. He went to two All-Star Games, and won four World Series rings. His best season came in 1997 when he finished second in AL MVP voting after hitting .296 with 44 long balls and 141 RBI.

The slugging first baseman played 16 seasons in the big leagues, and exited with 339 career home runs. Martinez was fun to watch, as he played the game with passion and charisma.

Next: Number 3