Martin Pérez, a left-handed pitcher from Venezuela, began his Major League Baseball career with the Texas Rangers. Signed as an international free agent in 2007, Pérez quickly rose through the minor league ranks, making his MLB debut with the Rangers in 2012. Known for his smooth delivery and ability to induce ground balls, Pérez became a regular fixture in the Rangers' starting rotation.
In his early years with Texas, Pérez showed promise with his ability to keep hitters off balance using a mix of fastballs, changeups, and curveballs. His breakout season came in 2013 when he posted a 10-6 record with a 3.62 ERA over 20 starts. This performance earned him a sixth-place finish in the American League Rookie of the Year voting. However, his career faced a setback in 2014 when he underwent Tommy John surgery, causing him to miss significant playing time.
Pérez returned to the mound in 2015, gradually regaining his form. Over the next few seasons, he remained a steady presence in the Rangers' rotation, though he occasionally struggled with consistency. His tenure with Texas was marked by moments of brilliance interspersed with challenges, as he worked to refine his control and command on the mound.
In 2019, Pérez signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Twins. During his time with the Twins, he adapted his pitching style, incorporating a cutter into his repertoire. This adjustment helped him achieve a 10-7 record with a 5.12 ERA, contributing to the Twins' successful season and playoff appearance.
The following year, Pérez joined the Boston Red Sox, where he continued to be a reliable starter. In the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, he led the Red Sox in innings pitched, demonstrating his durability and ability to handle a significant workload. His performance earned him a contract extension for the 2021 season.
Throughout his career, Pérez was known for his work ethic and ability to adapt to the evolving demands of the game. While he faced ups and downs, his perseverance and willingness to adjust his approach allowed him to maintain a presence in the major leagues. As a pitcher, Pérez relied on his ability to generate ground balls and manage contact, making him a valuable asset to the teams he played for.
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