Former Boston Red Sox designated hitter J.D. Martinez secured his next MLB team just a week before Opening Day. According to a report by Jon Heyman of The New York Post on Thursday night, Martinez is set to join the New York Mets in the National League East, agreeing to a one-year deal worth $12 million.
Martinez, who posted impressive stats of .271 batting average, 33 home runs, and 103 RBIs during his previous season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, will bring his power hitting skills to the Mets’ lineup. With six All-Star appearances under his belt, Martinez adds another formidable bat to the roster, offering support in the heart of the lineup alongside sluggers like Pete Alonso. This move not only strengthens the Mets’ offense but also provides depth to a lineup featuring notable players such as Francisco Lindor, Starling Marte, Francisco Álvarez, and Brandon Nimmo.
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Martinez’s move to the New York Mets marks his third team in as many seasons, demonstrating his continued relevance in the league at 36 years old. Despite a challenging final season with the Boston Red Sox in 2022, where his performance dipped, Martinez proved he still possesses skill and drive. Although he was named an All-Star that year, his stats were notably lower, with 16 home runs, 62 RBIs, and a .274 batting average.
Martinez won’t be burdened with carrying New York’s lineup, as that responsibility falls to Lindor and Alonso. However, his wealth of experience will be invaluable for the Mets, who have struggled in recent years, failing to win a playoff game since 2015 and finishing fourth in the NL East last season. With a World Series win under his belt from his time with the Red Sox in 2018, Martinez brings a veteran presence to the team as he enters his 14th season in the majors.
Despite missing the chance to play against Boston last season due to injury while with the Dodgers, Martinez will have an opportunity for a reunion when the Mets face the Red Sox in a three-game series to kick off September. Though the Mets won’t visit Fenway Park this season, Martinez will still have a chance to compete against his former club on home turf.
