News
Prediction
Fixtures
New York Mets Secure Signing of JD Martinez on One-Year Deal
In a move aimed at bolstering their lineup, the New York Mets officially announced on Saturday the acquisition of six-time All-Star JD Martinez on a one-year contract. While the financial details were not disclosed by the team, various media reports have pegged the deal at $12 million.
Reportedly, Martinez will receive $4.5 million for the 2024 season, with the remainder deferred to be paid out annually from 2034 to 2038. This deferral structure is anticipated to provide the Mets with substantial savings in terms of luxury tax implications.
Martinez, a consistent All-Star performer, continued his impressive streak by earning his third consecutive All-Star selection last year. During his brief tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023, Martinez showcased his offensive prowess by compiling a .271 batting average along with a .321 on-base percentage, a formidable .572 slugging percentage, and impressive totals of 33 home runs and 103 RBIs across 113 games.
David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, expressed his confidence in Martinez’s abilities, highlighting the veteran’s proven track record as a valuable asset to the team’s lineup. Stearns emphasized Martinez’s role in providing offensive protection and extending the Mets’ batting order, further underscoring the organization’s commitment to competitiveness both in the upcoming season and beyond.
In order to accommodate Martinez on the roster, the Mets made the decision to designate right-handed pitcher Phil Bickford for assignment.
Martinez’s departure from the Dodgers was precipitated by the team’s acquisition of two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani, whose expected role as a designated hitter due to an arm injury left limited space for Martinez in the lineup.
Prior to his stint with the Dodgers, Martinez spent five impactful seasons with the Boston Red Sox, notably contributing to the team’s 2018 World Series triumph while leading the majors with 130 RBIs during that championship campaign.
The veteran slugger has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning multiple franchises, including the Houston Astros (2011-2013), Detroit Tigers (2014-2017), and Arizona Diamondbacks (2017). Throughout his illustrious career encompassing 1,522 games, Martinez has compiled impressive offensive statistics, boasting a .287 batting average, a .350 on-base percentage, and a formidable .524 slugging percentage, in addition to amassing 315 home runs and 1,002 RBIs.
Prior to Martinez’s arrival, Mark Vientos was anticipated to assume the role of the Mets’ primary designated hitter. However, Martinez’s addition adds depth and experience to the Mets’ lineup, potentially reshaping the team’s offensive dynamics. Vientos, a promising 24-year-old talent, posted modest numbers last season with a .211 batting average, .253 on-base percentage, and .367 slugging percentage, accompanied by nine home runs and 22 RBIs in 65 games.
Meanwhile, Phil Bickford, the pitcher displaced by Martinez’s signing, compiled a 5-5 record with a 4.95 ERA in 61 relief appearances last season. Over the course of his career, spanning stints with the Milwaukee Brewers (2020-2021), Dodgers (2021-2023), and Mets, Bickford has accumulated an 11-8 record with a 4.43 ERA in 179 relief appearances.
The Mets, coming off a disappointing 75-87 season in 2023, are eager to reverse their fortunes and reclaim competitiveness in the upcoming campaign. Despite boasting the highest payroll in the majors last season, the team fell short of expectations, making strategic acquisitions like Martinez’s signing crucial to their aspirations of success in the highly competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
