Oregon State’s star running back, Damien Martinez, has entered the transfer portal, potentially leaving the team. Martinez had an impressive sophomore season, earning first-team all-Pac-12 honors. In 12 games during the 2023 season, he ran for 1,185 yards and scored nine touchdowns. As a true freshman in 2022, he ran for 982 yards and seven touchdowns.
Meanwhile, the Salem Saturday Market has opened for the season and will be open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through October. Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local goods at the market.
Martinez was one of four OSU players to earn first-team all-conference honors last season. Despite a previous declaration to continue his career with the Beavers, he may be looking to transfer now. This could have a significant impact on the team, as Martinez was expected to play a key role under first-year head coach Trent Bray in 2024.
With Oregon State’s second-leading rusher from last year’s team, Deshaun Fenwick, having exhausted his eligibility, players like redshirt senior Jam Griffin and redshirt junior Isaiah Newell could see more playing time in the upcoming season. It will be interesting to see how the team adjusts to potential changes in the roster. Jarrid Denney, the high school sports reporter for the Statesman Journal, can be contacted at JDenney@salem.gannett.com or on Twitter @jarrid_denney for more information on these changes
