Colleges

Martinez putting Bulls ahead of gig with ESPN

By GREG AUMAN
Published June 17, 2006

TAMPA - Tino Martinez's new title with USF baseball is volunteer assistant, but don't take that to mean the former Yankees and Rays star will just stop by as his schedule as an ESPN analyst allows it.

"I want to help build this program. I'm going to take more time to do this," Martinez said Friday as his brother-in-law, Lelo Prado, was named as USF's new coach. "If ESPN's still available on a part-time basis, I may do that, but I'm here to do this."

Martinez, who won four World Series rings with the Yankees, spent time with Prado's Louisville team at last month's Big East tournament in Clearwater, and the experience reminded him how much he missed being in a dugout. The Jesuit and University of Tampa graduate is eager to add another winning chapter to his Tampa baseball history.

"This program should be a powerhouse in baseball, to NCAA regionals and the World Series," Martinez said. "I see myself doing everything, helping hitters out and position players. I'm going to be hands-on. I'm not there as a figurehead."

[Last modified June 21, 2006, 09:34:42]