J.D. Martinez. Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Mets adding six-time All-Star in free agency

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated 3/21/24

The New York Mets have caught one of the biggest remaining fish left in free agency.

J.D. Martinez is expected to sign a one-year, $12 million contract with the New York Mets, according to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman.

Breaking: JD Martinez to Mets. $12M

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 22, 2024

The Mets beat out an AL team in what was reportedly a two-team race for Martinez’s services.

The Mets will have to pay quite a premium to acquire Martinez. The team is projected to be in the 110% competitive-balance tax bracket, which would mean owner Steve Cohen will have to pay more than double to add the three-time Silver Slugger.

Martinez will likely assume the role of everyday designated hitter for the Mets. During his 2023 campaign with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the 36-year-old outfielder played 110 of his 113 games at DH. Martinez was still very effective at the plate, batting .271 with 33 home runs and 103 RBI.

Last month, Martinez reportedly turned down a more lucrative offer from a different NL team.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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