When MLB legend Pedro Martinez expressed his dissatisfaction with allegedly racist voters who kept him from being MVP

Former Boston Red Sox player Pedro Martinez has many accolades to his name. In 1999, Martinez became a runner-up for the American League (AL) Most Valuable Player Award.

Martinez once said that his 1999 MVP snub was down to voters' racist attitudes. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the voters who kept him from being the MVP.

"You don't want to say you're racist, but sometimes you have to think, like, there are people that are racist," Martinez said on the Call Him Papi podcast. "Because how can you give votes to people that didn't belong in MVP contention just to harm someone individually?"

According to MLB.com, "had Martinez received one more first-place vote or been voted fourth or higher by the pair," he would have come away with the 1999 award.

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Pedro Martinez's unique relationship with baseball

Martinez spoke in a recent interview and tweeted about the effect the sport has had on him. He stated:

"Baseball to me has always been more than just a sport. It's been a way of life. It was the way I spent time with my family and we would laugh, have fun and argue all centered around baseball. So when you see me talk about baseball, it’s not a job, but it's a passion for the game."

Pedro Martinez finished the 1999 season with a 23-4 record, a 2.07 ERA, and 313 strikeouts, making it one of the best seasons of his career.

Colorado Rockies v Philadelphia Phillies, Game 1

He went on to win the American League (AL) Cy Young award twice more after being named the winner that year.

Back then, I had a mean mug, a chip on my shoulder and a whole lot to prove. #pedromartinez #baseball #athlete #hof #45enterprises #45enterprises - Pedro Martinez

But he is recognized for more than just his on-field accomplishments. The former Red Sox and New York Mets pitcher is renowned for his kind nature and dedication to his community.