The Bamtino

Tino Martinez started his new role as a spring training instructor today, working with Shelley Duncan on his skills at 1st Base. In addition to helping out the Yankees in spring training and at times during the season, Tino will soon be starting his 2nd season as a volunteer assistant coach for his brother-in-law, Lelo Prado, at the University of South Florida.

"Probably, eventually, down the line," Martinez said. "I didn't know how much I would enjoy coaching in college last year, and I really enjoyed it. Right now, I'm just very content with the role I have."

Tino's also excited about his chance to work with the MLB team he loved so much.

"It's awesome," Martinez said. "I really enjoy this, the opportunity to come out and coach and help these guys get better, especially the young guys."

The Yankees have everyone but the kitchen sink trying to win the 1st Base job this season. In addition to Duncan, Jason Giambi, Wilson Betemit, Jason Lane, and Morgan Ensberg will all be looking for playing time at the non-hot corner. Since Giambi is the only one of them to have spent extensive time there, Tino should be kept quite busy instructing the newbies. Duncan has already left him with a good impression.

"He's got soft hands," Martinez said. "He's a tall, lanky guy who is a great target at first base."

It had to seem a bit odd for Tino when his good buddies, and former teammates, Derek Jeter and Jorge Posada took BP today.

"I'm used to coming in here geared up for spring training, trying to find my swing," Martinez said. "It's nice to come out here and really enjoy the part of being a coach and helping the players get better, and not worrying so much about what I have to do to get ready for spring training."

Always good to have a Tino in the house.

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