Martinez Joins Workouts With Something to Prove

Those annoying visa problems solved, right-hander Ramon Martinez reported to Dodgertown on Tuesday and participated in workouts.

As belated openings go, Martinez and the Dodgers couldn’t complain.

Martinez, sidelined for two months last season after suffering a small tear in the rotator cuff on his throwing shoulder, threw off a mound for about 12 minutes. He showed no lingering effects from the injury, saying he’s eager to prove he has returned to full strength.

“I worked very hard in the off-season,” said Martinez, who went 10-5 with a 3.64 earned-run average last season.

“My main focus was to get my shoulder strong again and I did. I feel better than I did last year [when he reported].”

Said pitching coach Glenn Gregson: “His rhythm looked as good as I’ve seen in a long time. He looks very smooth.”

A tireless worker under normal circumstances, Martinez pushed himself relentlessly while rehabilitating from the injury at his off-season home in the Dominican Republic, team officials said.

Martinez arrived three days after workouts began because a member of his traveling party was awaiting approval for a visa. However, he reported in great shape, as usual.

Martinez threw off a mound beginning Dec. 20. He said he pitched 13 innings during the winter, and his velocity and control steadily increased while the pain in his shoulder decreased to levels normal for him.

But Martinez said the biggest improvement is in his outlook.

“Sometimes [with a rotator cuff injury] you’re worried about pitching again, you’re nervous,” Martinez said. “But my mind is clear and I’m very positive. I’m not afraid anymore.”