Cuban Raidel Martínez signs record contract for Latinos in Japanese baseball

The player from Pinar del Río secured a $32.5 million contract for four years with the storied Yomiuri Giants.

  • By the CiberCuba Editorial Team

Raidel Martínez © Instagram/raidelmartinez92
Raidel MartínezPhoto © Instagram/raidelmartinez92

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The Cuban closer Raidel Martínez, 28 years old, has signed a historic contract with the Yomiuri Giants of the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), valued at 32.5 million dollars for four seasons.

According to sources from the industry, including journalist Francys Romero on the social network Facebook, this agreement sets a new record for Latino players in that country, surpassing the 26 million established by fellow countryman Liván Moinelo and Mexican Roberto Osuna.

Martínez, regarded as the best closer in the league for the past four years, proved his worth in the most recent season, posting an ERA of 1.09 with 43 saves (a record for a Latino pitcher), 59 strikeouts, and allowing only six runs in 58 innings.

Undoubtedly, these numbers solidified his position as one of the most dominant relievers in the history of the NPB.

According to Romero himself, several Major League organizations were interested in the Cuban player, who chose to remain affiliated with the Cuban Baseball Federation. From MLB, it was reported that he received offers ranging from 50 to 70 million dollars.

With 166 saves in his career in Japan, the player from Pinar del Río has also become the all-time leader in saves among foreign pitchers. Signing this contract with the Yomiuri Giants strengthens their aspirations to build a dynasty in the Japanese league.

Frequently Asked Questions about Raidel Martínez's Record Contract in Japanese Baseball

What is the value of Raidel Martínez's contract with the Yomiuri Giants?

Raidel Martínez's contract with the Yomiuri Giants is valued at $32.5 million over four seasons. This agreement sets a new record for Latin players in the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), surpassing previous contracts held by Liván Moinelo and Roberto Osuna.

Why did Raidel Martínez decide to stay in the NPB instead of going to the MLB?

Despite receiving offers ranging from 50 to 70 million dollars from several Major League organizations, Raidel Martínez chose to remain in the NPB and stay affiliated with the Cuban Baseball Federation. His decision may be influenced by his success and established status in Japan.

What are Raidel Martínez's most notable statistics for the 2024 season?

In the 2024 season, Raidel Martínez achieved an impressive ERA of 1.09, with 43 saves, 59 strikeouts, and only allowed six runs in 58 innings. These statistics establish him as one of the most dominant relievers in the history of the NPB.

What impact does Raidel Martínez's contract in the NPB have on other Latino players?

Raider Martínez's record contract reinforces the growing impact of Latino players in the NPB, highlighting these athletes' ability to excel and set historic records in Japanese baseball. This paves the way and establishes new standards for future Latino talent in the league.

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