Russell Martin: in love with his new life

Despite spending 14 seasons on the best baseball circuit in the world, Russell Martin barely watches baseball anymore. He definitely turned the page.

In addition to playing golf four or five times a week for three years and going into business with the Cruise company, which produces alcoholic beverages, he is also the father of three young daughters.

“The transition went well,” the 39-year-old said on the terrace of Le Mirage golf club on Monday, as part of Omnium Théo & Louis, on behalf of the Véro & Louis foundation and CHU Sainte-Justina.

Although his role as a father is his priority, he still admits he finds great pleasure in his newfound passion for golf. “My competitive instinct is fueled by golf,” he says, laughing.

a peaceful retirement

Martin knew he could still play when he retired. However, he questioned himself. Then came the pandemic.

Finally, you will have confirmed the receiver of your intentions. He didn’t want to play in front of empty stands, and even though he received offers and teams showing interest in him, he didn’t feel the call or the urgency to start the process leading up to a new season.

In the summer of the first wave of COVID-19, Martin was in uncharted territory. For the first time in nearly 30 years, his summer wasn’t guided by baseball.

This comfort, therefore, convinced him to hang up his glove for good and dedicate the rest of his time to his family.

The most important thing is that the Canadian has no regrets. He lived his dream, played in four markets, participated in the All-Star Game, played in the playoffs and faced the best players on the planet. “I did what I had to do and had fun. »

Leblanc, Pujols and Judge

Martin may follow baseball a little less regularly than before, but he keeps up with what’s happening in the big leagues. He was also excited to comment on three stories that have grabbed attention this season.

First, the smashing debut of Quebecer Charles Leblanc with the Miami Marlins: “When you start, when you hit and when you produce, it’s fun. You enter like us. That’s how I started my career. You never know if you’ll get a second chance, so if you don’t introduce yourself early on, it can be dangerous. So I’m happy for him. Especially in an organization like the Marlins, they are sometimes more patient and their payroll is a little lower, so they like it when the youngsters are good because they let them play. With the Marlins, he’s in a good place. »

He then talked about Albert Pujols, who became the fourth player in history to hit 700 homers: “That’s 35 homers for 20 years. It’s ridiculous ! It’s amazing! I remember, early on in his career, when he was probably at his peak, it was amazing. When I was behind home plate, there was no getting it out. He is strong, disciplined and intelligent. He has all the qualities. On a technical level, it has great momentum, it’s stable, it doesn’t move much and its mechanics are simple. »

Then he talked about Aaron Judge, who made the New York Yankees history book in his 60s.^and circuit of the season, thus joining Babe Ruth, slapping Roger Maris’ team record: “For the story, it’s super interesting, but other than that, he’s a good kid, really. He’s a giant, he is a monster so luckily he’s cool otherwise he’d be dangerous as a tabarnouche! He also works hard but for all guys of his caliber it’s not just talent but they work well It couldn’t happen to one person better. I am very happy for him. »