The New York Mets have been trying to bring superstar slugger Pete Alonso back to Queens in free agency. However, they also have another power hitter in free agency: J.D. Martinez.
According to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, Martinez is aiming to play in 2025. He hit 16 home runs last season. While predicting every team’s opening day lineup, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter predicted the Detroit Tigers would sign the veteran slugger.
“If the Tigers are willing to make Colt Keith, Jace Jung and Spencer Torkelson compete for one spot in the starting lineup, a reunion with J.D. Martinez would give them the proven veteran run producers their lineup is lacking,” wrote Reuter. “The versatility of Matt Vierling gives them additional flexibility, as he can play in the outfield when Jung is at third base.”
Martinez is a six-time All-Star and just one season removed from his most recent selection. Martinez played in 120 games for the Mets last season and had a 106 OPS+. Martinez could plug in as a great option against left-handed pitching for the Tigers.
Martinez slashed .263/.370/.466 against lefties last season. He has a career OPS of .863 and has hit 331 career homers. He would not provide much, if anything, defensively, but is clearly an asset on offense.
His .235 batting average with the Mets was his worst single-season average since the 2020 season. However, he began the season dealing with injuries and did not make his debut until April 26. Martinez would be an inexpensive addition and could bring a power threat to the Tigers.
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