Mario Martinez is a good player. He could start on MLS sides, but seems more likely to be a high use rotational guy. The only issue is how often can he take the field as his National Team coach seems to want him often, if not always.

#23 Mario Martinez Nat'l Affil Honduras Age 24 Years Pro 8 Years Sounder 2 Pos/Role Attacking Midfielder MLS (+Playoff) Stats CCL/USOC Stats Reserve Stats Apps 10 5 1 Starts 5 4 1 Mins 503 364 57 G 0 0 0 A 1 0 0 PP/90 0.18 -- -- Advanced Stats Off Pass % Net Shot Rate Net Duel Rate Total 58% -0.85 -2.86 Team Rank 15th 17th 19th

#23 Mario Martinez

The exciting thing about Martinez is that he may be back as a Sounder again. Consider him the international Neagle. A guy that spends parts of seasons with Seattle and eventually comes back to make a difference. Every indications is that Mario can make a difference.

Offense: Seattle has a few players that are clearly a cut above the rest in creative abilities historically. When Freddie, Fredy, Mauro and Alvaro had the ball at their feet you never knew what kind of move or pass they'd make. Martinez was just under that in ability. For someone with a decent long distance shot his threats on goal were low. Decent crosser. One footed. Cuts to the middle a lot. Can be a service threat on set-pieces.

Defense: Just prior to leaving this season started tracking back more, putting effort into the defensive side of the ball. Not a great winner of the ball. Doesn't go to ground. Can't defend on set-plays.

Physique: Used to contact. Not great with speed but can slip through defenses due to agility. Is not large, but is built enough for MLS contact.

Best Case 2014: He comes back to Seattle, continues to advance his defensive skills and slots into a starting wide mid role.