RailCats Sign Two Veterans

Gary, IN – The Gary SouthShore RailCats have acquired and signed catcher Carlos Martinez from Trois-Rivieres and signed first baseman Emmanuel Tapia.

Martinez, 27, spent the 2022 season with the Trois-Rivières Aigles of the Frontier League. In 70 games he hit .336 with 16 doubles, 16 home runs, and 62 RBIs. He was selected to the All-Star game

“Martinez comes highly recommended after posting impressive All-Star offensive numbers in the Frontier League last season,” said manager Lamarr Rogers.

Martinez comes to the RailCats with 10 years of professional playing experience. The Atlanta Braves signed the right-hander in 2013 at the age of 18. The Columbian native played eight seasons in their farm system. During the 2021 season he worked his way from High-A to Double-A to Triple-A. Over 37 total games that season he hit .273 with 10 doubles, two home runs, and 20 RBIs.

“He’ll also provide Triple AAA ‘ experienced veteran leadership to our Cats team working with our pitching staff. Carlos has become another all-around talent and I’m very happy to welcome him to our Gary team!”

Tapia, 26, has spent the last two seasons with the Gastonia Honey Hunters of the Atlantic League. He played in 198 total games with Gastonia and the left-hander slashed .280/.370/.521. The Dominican native accumulated 144 hits, including 28 doubles, 32 home runs, 125 RBIs, and an OPS of .892.

“Tapia brings a veteran big bat from the left side to our ‘Cats lineup. Over the last two seasons in the Atlantic League, he has developed into a consistent all-around player and All-Star talent. I’m excited to welcome Emmanuel to the Gatos family!”

Tapia signed with the Cleveland Guardians in 2013 and spent six seasons with the organization. Over the six seasons he slammed 52 home runs, 73 doubles and knocked in 196. He most recently played for Lynchburg Hillcats (High-A) in 2018.

The RailCats 2023 season begins at the Steel Yard on Thursday, May 11 vs Winnipeg Goldeyes. Season tickets packages and group outings for the 2023 season can be reserved by calling 219-882-2255 or emailing [email protected].