The New York Mets made serious moves this offseason, signing Juan Soto, re-signing Pete Alonso, and bringing back Jesse Winker while bolstering their pitching staff. But with injuries already taking a toll on pitchers Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas, their rotation depth is already being tested as they head into the 2025 season.
Despite those early pitching setbacks, the Mets are primed for another postseason run. After a surprise NLCS appearance last fall, where they fell just short against the eventual World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers; there’s optimism about what’s to come.
However, not everything is smooth sailing. One key member from last year’s squad could be heading across town to the Bronx. Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has predicted that veteran DH J.D. Martinez might be wearing Yankees pinstripes by the start of the season.
According to New York Post insider Jon Heyman, the Yankees have been in discussions with Martinez as they seek depth in their lineup, especially with Giancarlo Stanton dealing with elbow tendinitis. Reuter suggests, “Don’t be surprised if a deal gets done in the near future.”
Martinez, who struggled a bit during his time with the Mets last season, slashed just .235/.320/.406 with a .725 OPS. Still, he managed to hit 16 home runs and drive in 69 RBIs, which isn’t a bad showing, but it wasn’t enough to lock down a regular spot in the Mets’ lineup, especially with Soto now in the fold and Alonso and Winker returning. The Mets’ roster is stacked, leaving little room for a consistent role for Martinez.
On the other hand, the Yankees could offer him more regular at-bats, particularly if Stanton remains sidelined for an extended period. While the Mets may no longer have a clear spot for Martinez, the Yankees could use his bat as they look to make a push for another championship.
At 37 years old, Martinez is a six-time All-Star, three-time Silver Slugger, and a World Series champion with the Boston Red Sox. While his best years might be behind him, he could still provide value to a team looking for veteran presence and some pop in the lineup.
As the season draws closer, expect Martinez’s market to heat up—whether that’s in the Bronx or elsewhere.