The Rafters offseason officially got underway today when team officials announced the signing of infielder Bobby Martin (Valparaiso). Martin is the first player added to the 2011 roster.

Next spring, Martin will begin his first season playing at Valparaiso University after transferring from Heartland Community College in Illinois. The 5’10”, 195-pound junior will have two seasons of college eligibility remaining at Valparaiso. Last year at Heartland CC, despite battling a hamstring injury most of the spring, Martin finished strong with a .395 batting average, 14 doubles, four home runs, and 20 RBIs in only 81 at bats.

After announcing his 2011 recruiting class this fall, Valparaiso head coach Tracy Woodson had this to say about Martin. “We are counting on Bobby to make an immediate impact not only at the top of our line-up but also as our leader in the infield. He gives us above-average speed, a power bat, as well as being a plus defender.”

Martin attended Prairie Ridge High School and batted .370 with 13 doubles, three triples, and 33 stolen bases his senior year. He is a native of Crystal Lake, Illinois.