So good news for Red Sox nation, as the team signs J.D. Martinez. Since there has been rumbling in the off-season of acquiring Martinez; both sides came to an agreement on Monday.
J.D. Martinez
Because Dave Dombrowski had a relationship with Martinez from his days with the Detriot Tigers; Dombrowski felt he would be a good fit with Boston. Indeed, his bat could be what the Sox need since they were last in the American League in home runs last year. Visit my Boston Red Sox Winter Baseball Meetings post and you can see that the Sox were always on the lookout to add a power bat.
Now the Sox have finally acquired the big bat they have been looking for. Indeed, all of Red Sox Nation can breathe a sigh of relief.
At the same time, last year was the best year of Martinez’s professional MLB career. He had 45 home runs in 432 at bats. Furthermore, his slugging performance was at .690. With his powerful right hand swing; he should do really well hitting at Fenway Park. In addition, his home runs and RBI’s should be a welcome relief after an under performing Red Sox team of 2017.
J.D. Martinez and Red Sox Deal
So the deal is pending a physical. However, we can all assume this will be done soon. First and foremost, the deal is for five years for $110 million dollars. And, an opt out clause has been included for the second and third year. With the Sox acquiring the power hitter they have been looking for since Ortiz retired; they have countered the big deal the Yankees made in the off-season in signing Giancarlo Stanton.
Red Sox Team
Now the Red Sox have a new Manager. In essence, Alex Cora was part of the Houston Astros success in winning the World Series. Moreover, it is expected that many of the Red Sox players will be better offensively in 2018. Above all, the Red Sox have an elite pitching staff.
In summary, now that the Sox have a deal for Martinez; they have a better chance of winning the American League East.
As always, I welcome your comments.
