2017 MLB Draft Profile: Corbin Martin, RHP, Texas A&M University

One of the most intriguing arms at the college level for the 2017 MLB draft belongs to Corbin Martin, right-handed pitcher from Texas A&M University. Here’s a quick look at what he offers.

THE BASICS

Corbin Martin played high school baseball in Cypress, Texas, where he had success as both a right-handed pitcher and a power-hitting outfielder. He also had a scholarship to Texas A&M and was considered a difficult sign; consequently he went undrafted in 2014.

Used in the bullpen as a freshman, he posted a 2.95 ERA in 18 innings with a 21/12 K/BB, then threw 21.2 innings without giving up an earned run in the Alaska Summer League. His sophomore season resulted in a 5.47 ERA in 26.1 innings due to command issues, but he made noise again in summer ball by posting a 1.15 with a 22/3 K/BB in 16 innings in the Cape Cod League.

Martin opened 2017 in the bullpen again but switched to the starting rotation when the Aggies moved into conference play. He’s pitched 74 innings overall this spring with a composite 3.03 ERA with a 78/34 K/BB. He’s made nine starts in conference play, posting a 2.30 ERA with a 50/25 K/BB in 55 innings, including a 12-strikeout performance against Arkansas on May 19th.

STRENGTHS

Martin is well-built and athletic at 6-3, 200. Born December 28, 1995, he is a right-handed hitter and thrower. As a reliever Martin hit 96-98 MPH with his fastball. As a starter that’s more commonly 91-95 but with excellent movement.

He has an overpowering breaking ball, a big power curve that’s a definite plus pitch. He also has a decent slider, and since moving into the starting role he’s shown the ability to use a good change-up, too.

When his command is on, Martin throws four quality pitches for strikes and has little trouble putting hitters away.

WEAKNESSES

Unfortunately Martin’s command was not always on during his sophomore year and at times the whole has been less than the sum of the parts. Despite his strong summer on the Cape he did not come into the 2017 draft season with much hype.

That’s changed this spring, especially after he showed the ability to start games and succeed in April and May, but it does leave teams wondering if he’ll be inconsistent in pro ball as well. Even with improvements this spring his walk rate is still rather high.

OVERALL PROJECTION

Martin’s draft stock has been rising steadily all spring. Better command and the development of his change-up have boosted his stock, and a team that projects him as a starter could be tempted to select him in the back half of the first round.

He may not advance as quickly as some college arms, but there’s upside here as a mid-rotation arm or as a power reliever.

Video by Jheremy Brown