For Mahoning Valley Scrappers infielder Ben Martin, baseball has always been about the relationships he built while playing the game.

“I mean, I love baseball, I love playing the game, it’s my favorite thing to do,” Martin said. “But when I look back at anything that has to do with my time on the field, I don’t really reflect on specific moments. I don’t look back at personal achievements.

“Anytime I reflect on my involvement in the game, my thoughts are always about the guys who were out there with me.”

For Martin, those lasting relationships begin with his older brother and first baseball idol, Alex. The two brothers are separated by 10 years.

Ben says that he and Alex spent “countless hours” playing wiffle ball in their backyard. Alex taught Ben the ins and outs of baseball. He taught him how to succeed on and off the field.

Alex would go on to play baseball in junior college. He then graduated from LSU and today, is a sports agent.

“Growing up, my entire life I watched Alex pour his heart into everything he did,” Ben said. “He played baseball a certain way, he was completely committed, and I always strived to be the same way. Now in his business, he has that same drive. He makes me want to give it my all in anything I do.

“He actually helped get me (with the Scrappers). I was playing summer ball in Pensacola, and he knew a few people, made a few calls, and here I am.”

Martin grew up in Cut Off, La. and attended South Lafourche High School. He was part of a high school team that enjoyed a multi-year run as one of Louisiana’s top Class 4A programs while appearing in three state title games.

“Those were my guys,” Ben said. “I loved playing with that group, they’re still some of my best friends. They’re like family.”

It was Alex who also helped Ben when it came time to choose a college. Alex played college ball with someone who moved on to coach at Alcorn State. Information was exchanged, the Alcorn State coaches liked what they saw in Ben, and he was offered a scholarship.

Ben recently completed his junior year at Alcorn State. The Braves are coached by former MLB player Reggie Williams.

“Coach Williams is the guy who recruited me, he’s much more than a coach to me; he’s a mentor and a friend,” Martin said. “I talk to him regularly, and most of the time, it’s not baseball-related. We talk about everything. He’s a great teacher. He’s a true leader.”

Ben grew up faithfully following the LSU baseball program, noting that “the passion and environment surrounding LSU baseball provided great inspiration to play college ball.” He is an avid golfer but notes that his game “needs a lot of work.”

Ben majored in business administration at Alcorn State. He says that it’s not out of the realm that he and Alex could one day join forces in the business world. For now, he’d love to utilize Alex’s services in a player / agent capacity.

“It’s always been my dream to play professional ball,” Ben said. “No matter what happens from here on out I enjoyed every minute of my time in baseball. But yeah, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have dreams of playing at the next level.”