The Chicago Cubs made a significant move in the offseason by re-signing standout slugger Cody Bellinger to a lucrative three-year, $80 million contract. However, the team’s enhancement efforts may not end there as they aim to make a playoff comeback for the first time since 2020.
According to Bleacher Report’s Brandon Scott, the Cubs could potentially add more firepower by pursuing J.D. Martinez, a six-time All-Star. MLB Trade Rumors projected Martinez to secure a two-year, $40 million contract in free agency.
Scott highlighted in an article outlining the top destinations for available MLB free agents that if the Cubs prioritize the designated hitter (DH) position similarly to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ approach last season, Martinez could be a valuable addition ready to contribute with his batting prowess.
J.D. Martinez Could Enhance the Chicago Cubs’ Designated Hitter Role
Currently, the Cubs plan to rotate various players at the designated hitter (DH) position, including Patrick Wisdom, Christopher Morel, Mike Tauchman, and Cody Bellinger throughout the upcoming season.
However, Martinez would offer a considerable upgrade, as each of those players can also play in different defensive positions.
Wisdom, mainly a third baseman, posted a .205/.289/.500 slash line with the Cubs in the previous season. Morel, who has been getting playing time at third base in Spring Training, recorded a .247/.313/.508 slash line in 2023. Tauchman, predominantly an outfielder throughout his six-year career, produced a .252/.363/.377 slash line last season.
Bellinger, currently the Cubs’ most established power hitter, had a standout season in 2023, winning the NL Comeback Player of the Year Award with a .307/.356/.525 slash line. His defensive versatility as a first baseman and outfielder was also a key factor in securing his lucrative return to Chicago.
In contrast, Martinez primarily served as a DH in 110 of his 113 starts with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year, tallying impressive stats of .271/.321/.572 with 33 home runs and 103 RBIs. He even secured a starting role in his sixth All-Star game.
Brandon Scott highlighted Martinez’s exceptional performance metrics, noting that even at 35 years old, he ranks exceptionally high in several key categories like expected slugging, average exit velocity, barrel percentage, hard-hit percentage, and sweet-spot percentage.
The Cubs, known for their financial resources, might find Martinez’s attributes appealing for their DH position. Nevertheless, the likelihood of acquiring him will depend on negotiation and the final price tag.
What Would be the Price of Bringing J.D. Martinez to the Chicago Cubs?
Bob Nightengale from USA Today mentions that Martinez has declined at least one offer for a single-year contract this offseason as he pursues a slightly longer commitment.
Nightengale reported that the San Francisco Giants proposed a one-year, ,42 million contract after Martinez’s refusal.
The Cubs might be considering holding off on offering a lengthy contract to a power hitter until the 2025 free-agent market, potentially featuring notable players like Juan Soto and Pete Alonso. However, if they aim to enhance their lineup before the season begins, Martinez could be a compelling option currently available.
Brett Taylor of Bleacher Nation suggested, “…J.D. Martinez is expected to continue being a valuable hitter in 2024, likely hitting a substantial number of home runs and potentially improving numerous teams. If he maintains his performance from last year, the Cubs would be delighted to have his offensive prowess in their lineup.”
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