Pedro Martínez calls Rasmussen’s ALDS Game 1 outing ‘greatness’

Pedro Martínez called Drew Rasmussen’s performance “greatness” after the Rays right-hander pitched eight scoreless innings in Tampa Bay’s 1–0 win over the Yankees in ALDS Game 1 on October 3.

Martínez (in my opinion the best pitcher in modern day baseball history) joined Curtis Granderson and Jimmy Rollins on TBS’s The Closer, hosted by Adam Lefkoe, to discuss Rasmussen’s command and composure.

Rasmussen allowed one hit and two walks, struck out 10 and threw 101 pitches. Jonathan Aranda’s third-inning home run supplied the only run, and Bryan Baker pitched a hitless ninth for the save. TSP’s final Game 1 page has the scoring and pitching record.

Martínez on pitch placement

“This performance really, really caught my attention,” Martínez said. “I really enjoyed everything he did.”

He praised the location of Rasmussen’s pitches and the pace at which he worked, describing the way he moved the ball around as purposeful.

“I’m really impressed with this young man,” Martínez said.

Granderson and Rollins on staying in control

Granderson noted that Rasmussen had spoken about being nervous before pitching in the playoff atmosphere at home, then praised the control he showed once the game began.

“It didn’t matter who was up there against him, he stayed in control and kept the Yankees hitters off balance all night,” Granderson said.

Rollins described the signs an infielder sees when a pitcher is in command, from the ball coming out of his hand to hitters guessing. He said Rasmussen adjusted when he missed a target rather than leaving a pitch the hitters could drive.

“Everything he threw tonight, as Pedro said, was with intention,” Rollins said.