Spring training continues as the Blue Jays assess their depth and talent while seemingly searching for another bat after missing out on several high-profile free agents in the offseason.
If the Blue Jays were willing to invest $9.3 million in Brandon Belt and $13 million in Justin Turner, there’s no reason they shouldn’t do the same for J.D. Martinez.
Reports suggest the Blue Jays may have interest in former Mets designated hitter J.D. Martinez, especially after parting ways with Belt and Turner, leaving the DH spot unfilled.
Martinez would bring valuable veteran leadership to the Blue Jays.
The 37-year-old designated hitter has thrived in the role after transitioning from an everyday hitter, previously delivering 40-plus home runs per season.
JD Martinez launched a solo home run (his 25th) to narrow the Blue Jays’ lead to 4-3.
His 2023 campaign with the Dodgers was his best since 2019, posting a .271/.321/.572 slash line with 33 home runs over 479 plate appearances, resulting in a 135 wRC+ and a 2.4 fWAR. While his 31.1% strikeout rate was a concern, it was still a strong season overall.
Given that his production remains solid for his age, a one-year deal would be a sensible move for the Blue Jays, helping to strengthen a lineup that has lacked power.
Signing Martinez would allow the Blue Jays to add offense without sacrificing assets
Despite general manager Ross Atkins stating two weeks ago that the team was more likely to improve the lineup via trade rather than free agency, Martinez could be an exception. As a free agent, he would come at a relatively low cost and wouldn’t require the team to part with any prospects or key assets.
Some analysts believe the Blue Jays could sign Martinez for under $12 million on a one-year deal, providing them with a dependable bat as they round out their roster.
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays have a doubleheader ahead, first facing the Tigers at TD Ballpark before traveling to take on the Yankees. Game one is set for 1:07 PM, with game two scheduled for 6:35 PM on February 28th.