Sep 29, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter J.D. Martinez (28) reacts after hitting a three-run home run against the San Francisco Giants during the sixth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: Los Angeles Dodgers at San Francisco Giants
NEW YORK — The top remaining hitter on the free agent market has found a new home.
Former Dodgers slugger J.D. Martinez signed a 1-year, $12-million deal with the New York Mets on Thursday, pending a physical, league sources said.
With less than one week remaining prior to Opening Day, the Mets have finally landed their much-needed offensive upgrade at designated hitter and some lineup security for Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor.
Martinez put together sensational campaign last year in Los Angeles, eclipsing the 30-homer and 100-RBI thresholds for the first time since 2019.
The 36-year-old veteran showed zero signs of slowing down last year ranking eighth in barrels and seventh in hard hit percentage.
But it’s not all roses and chocolates.
Martinez could consent to being optioned to Triple-A Syracuse until the Mets decide he’s ready to take over as their everyday designated hitter, Tim Healey of Newsday reports. Per Healey, the stint in the minor leagues will likely be 10 days.
While Martinez has options remaining, because of his MLB service time he would have to consent to being sent down to the minors. It sounds like he would be willing to do that in an effort to get up to speed after missing most (if not all) of spring training.
Mark Vientos would likely be used as the Mets’ DH until the slugger is ready.
