WHY RUSSELL MARTIN IS A GAMER

What else do you expect from a guy like Russell Martin? He is craving the next contest against the Red Sox. Every Yankees player knows there's only one first place team in the American League East and that's the Yankees.

Russell Martin spoke to RDS in an extensive interview and you can read the whole thing HERE. That being said, what stood out for me were 3 important things; his excitement of the rivalry against the evil Red Sox, Jesus Montero as well as his charity work.

Here is some of the highlights of that interview:

RDS: How will the Yankees want to react the next time that they face Red Sox at the end of August?

Martin: We didn't have all of our elements on the field last time we faced the Yankees, A-Rod was out. It's important have all your players on the field when facing the Sox. We will have the same approach as we always take upon starting a series against the Sox or any other team. Before every series we have video, graphics and statistics we use in order to know which of their hitters are hot or not in the last week or so. Then we can adjust on who we need to watch for. My job is to control our pitching staff and have them as prepared as they can be, and I take to that job with dedication. Graphics will show the tendencies of a position player or a pitcher when it comes time to face them. Every little hint or statistic counts against any team you face in order to be as well prepared as possible. We have two more series against the Red Sox. As a team we will be prepared. It will be a tight race to the finish for first, but we will be ready. We are a competitive team every inning.

RDS: What do you think about the potential of Jesus Montero joining the Yankees? Do you see it like a threat for your situation or a good addition for the team?

Martin: I haven't though about it!

RDS: What has your role been in the community?

Martin: I have been a part of various charity events in the last couple months here in New York. A lot of the players have their own charity events that we take part in, and www.yankeesunite.com and Hope Week meant a lot to me. I think its important to be giving back in local communities and the world, whatever your beliefs. I give back to www.onedrop.org to help get clean and drinkable water to people in need all around the world. Giving back has brought joy in my life. It's important for me to help good causes.

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