Astros’ Corbin Martin dazzles in Major League debut

Astros’ rookie Corbin Martin couldn’t have given his mother and grandmother, who were in the stands, a better Mother’s Day gift than that spectacular debut.

Martin made his Major League debut for the Houston Astros in Minute Maid Park, just a half-hour from where he played high school ball. With his family watching in the stadium, he did more than could have been expected of him.

He got his first win surrendering two earned runs in 5.1 innings of work, striking out nine while walking just one batter. One of those runs was a solo shot from Isiah Kiner-Falefa in the third. But Martin kept his composure and struck out the next two batters to close out the inning.

Martin was pulled in the 6th inning with one-on and one-out, after walking Shin-Soo Choo and then striking out Danny Santana. Following his congratulations of a job well done from A. J. Hinch, he walked off the mound with a resounding standing ovation as he headed to the dugout. He couldn’t help but crack a smile at that moment, a moment that he’ll never forget.

Ironically, Collin McHugh, the starter Martin replaced, was the pitcher that came in to relieve him. He wasn’t able to hold the inherited runner, giving up two straight singles and then a fielder’s choice to Hunter Pence scoring Elvis Andrus for Martins second and last earned run of the night. McHugh would give up another run of his own before getting out of the inning. Chris Devenski would give up two more harmless runs in the ninth.

The Astros certainly didn’t come up short in run support. They eclipsed their season high in hits and runs with 18 and 15, respectively. The offensive onslaught was highlighted by a career afternoon for George Springer who went 5-for-5, with five runs, four RBIs and two home runs. Alex Bregman also contributed two homers and five RBIs. Final score Astros 15 – Rangers 5.

I’m sure Corbin Martin is walking on air right now and deservedly so. This could be the beginning of a special career, only time will tell. But for now, let Martin savor this special day.