If the top MLB teams are still looking to get hold of the offseason, J.D. Martinez could be the best suitor for them. The six-time All-Star and prominent name in the free agent market has a storied history in the league.
Although it’s not too long back when he hit his peak years with the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox. From 2014 to 2019, Martinez carried an elite performance. He had an impressive .307/.373/.581 batting line and hit 207 home runs. He was one of the most formidable hitters of his time, trailing only Mike Trout and Aaron Judge in wRC+ during that span.
However, since the beginning of the 2021 season, Martinez has seen a drop in his overall production. The Florida-born outfielder posted a batting line of .268/.334/.486 with a wRC+ of 122. Although he still has a lot to contribute to the game, his 2023 return to form is a stark reminder of what he could do. The three-time Silver Slugger awardee got 33 homers during the time.
His power fluctuated significantly in recent seasons, highlighted by a return to form in 2023 with 33 homers, demonstrating that he can still deliver impressive offensive output when he connects well.
J.D. Martinez’s Last Resort Landing Spots
3) Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays are coming off a disappointing offseason marked by missed opportunities in the free-agent market. Given their situation, Toronto may find a viable solution in veteran designated hitter J.D. Martinez. Despite their ambitions to land a superstar, the reality of limited options has led them to consider a more affordable alternative.
When JD Martinez forgot right field at Fenway has much lower walls. pic.twitter.com/0oVFboymU1
— Baseball’s Greatest Moments (@BBGreatMoments) November 1, 2023
Martinez, who is projected to sign a one-year deal worth $9.5 million, presents a compelling case as a right-handed power bat that the Blue Jays need. The signing could also get them a better arrangement to protect key hitters like Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
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The need for right-handed power is particularly pressing. Last season, the Blue Jays finished 28th in isolated power against left-handed pitching. Martinez, who posted a .203 ISO and 139 wRC+ against lefties in 2024, could fill that gap significantly. At 36 years old, he might not offer the same vitality he once did, but his veteran presence could surely sail the team over critical situations.
2) Washington Nationals
As the New York Mets dive into offseason moves, they’re facing the possibility of saying goodbye to veteran slugger J.D. Martinez. The designated hitter has reportedly caught the eye of the Washington Nationals. Martinez’s right-handed bat could provide the balance they need against a lefty-heavy roster, in something similar to that of the Blue Jays. While his .235 batting average in 2024 might be of some concern, his power is still evident, with 16 home runs in 120 games.
"Now is not the time to hit the brakes, it's time to hit the gas."@Nationals GM Mike Rizzo talks about plans to build around the young group in D.C. and more.#MLBTonight presented by @CohnReznick pic.twitter.com/xi2A0mAOEt
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 10, 2024
From a financial standpoint, Spotrac estimates Martinez could land a one-year deal worth $9.5 million. This potential exit poses a tough choice for the Mets, who also aim to keep star first baseman Pete Alonso around. It’s not just about filling a spot. Like every other team, the Mets are focused on finding the right mix of experience and young talent to stay competitive.
1) San Francisco Giants
Out of the other two probables, the San Francisco Giants have a better chance to get Martinez in particular. As Buster Posey takes the reins of the Giants’ front office, the team is faced with the challenge of bouncing back from years of mediocrity while trying to attract big-name talent. The recent rumor about J.D. Martinez potentially landing with the Giants is intriguing, especially given that the team has the cash to spend.
JUST. DINGERS.
— SNY (@SNYtv) June 15, 2024
SECOND HOME RUN OF THE DAY FOR J.D. MARTINEZ! pic.twitter.com/b1VsVWheDh
However, the high cost of living and steep taxes in the Bay Area make it tough to convince players to come aboard. Just last offseason, Martinez opted for less money elsewhere to avoid the Giants. Still, there’s hope that Posey’s status as a beloved former player can help change the narrative and attract free agents.
Also, landing someone like Martinez could still make sense for the Giants. We’ll see if Posey can create a more inviting atmosphere for free agents who may have previously shunned the franchise.
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