Martin offers praise for former teammate Jeter

BRADENTON, Fla. -- Russell Martin had an eventful two seasons in the Bronx before signing as a free agent with the Pirates prior to last season. The highlight of those two seasons will probably be something which he will fondly recall once his career is over: Playing with Derek Jeter.

"He was a great teammate," Martin said of the Yankees shortstop, the day after Jeter announced this season will be his last. "I've had a lot of great teammates, but he stood out. What you see and hear is definitely what you get. A class act, all the way around.

"I have nothing but praise for Derek and how he approaches the game and his work ethic, and for the way he conducts himself on and off the field. A role model, defined."