WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, joined by 35 members of Congress including Representatives Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR), Washington state’s Adam Smith (D-WA), Rick Larsen (D-WA), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Denny Heck (D-WA) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) introduced a resolution honoring the Seattle Mariners’ Edgar Martinez for his outstanding career as a professional baseball player and for his noteworthy humanitarian and philanthropic efforts.
“For all the ways that Edgar has given back to our Seattle community, as well as our global community, it is an honor to recognize him. He shows, in no uncertain terms, that commitment and compassion—on and off the field—can change lives for the better,” said Rep. Jayapal. “From his fellowship program that benefits teachers and students to his funding of muscular dystrophy research, Edgar goes to bat for our community time and again. Thank you, Edgar, for all you do.”
“As a member of our organization for more than 25 years, we know firsthand that Edgar is both a Hall of Fame person, and a Hall of Fame player,” said Kevin Mather, Seattle Mariners President & Chief Executive Officer. “We thank Congresswoman Jayapal for sponsoring House Resolution 672 honoring Edgar Martinez for his excellence as a player, and for his substantial philanthropic efforts to make the Northwest a better community for all.”
“Time and again, Edgar has shown up for his team and his community. Not only is he a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest, but also a celebrated son of Puerto Rico. Edgar’s character and service makes us all proud. It is my honor to join my colleagues today in recognizing his great career and contributions,” said Rep. Nydia Velázquez.
“Martinez represents the best of the game of Baseball through his extraordinary character, community involvement, positive contributions, both on and off the field. This Puerto Rican baseball player exemplifies discipline and determination, and in addition to being a source of pride for all Puerto Ricans, examples our youth because of his performance, effort and tenacity. Edgar deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and hopefully the voters will acknowledge that this year,” said Rep. González-Colón.
In addition to Velázquez and González-Colón, the bipartisan legislation is backed by Washington state’s entire Democratic House delegation.
“Edgar Martinez exemplifies the Pacific Northwest tradition of social responsibility and engagement in athletics. Martinez devoted countless hours and considerable funds to battle Muscular Dystrophy; he helped to create a more diverse pool of teachers in Washington state; and he selflessly contributed to the fundraising efforts for victims of Hurricane Sandy and other disasters. To me, Martinez is both an all-star on and off the field,” said Rep. Smith.
“Edgar Martinez started his professional career in Bellingham. As Congress honors him for his abilities on the diamond and his citizenship, I am confident this is the year he cements his legacy with a trip to Cooperstown,” said Rep. Rick Larsen.
“Edgar Martinez has been a leader not only in athletics but also in our community and he’s well-deserving of recognition for all his hard work on and off the baseball field,” Rep. DelBene said. “So in honor of Edgar, it’s only fitting that Congress gets out the rye bread and mustard, it’s grand salami time.”
