The Detroit Tigers had an exciting second half of the 2024 season. After a significant fire sale at the trade deadline, the team surged in August and secured the last American League Wild Card spot. They came within one win of their first ALCS appearance since 2013, but to advance further into October in 2025, they will need to bolster their offensive lineup.
In a recent article by Joel Reuter for Bleacher Report, he projected every team’s Opening Day lineup, which included a familiar name for Detroit: J.D. Martinez.
“The Tigers possess many exciting young offensive talents, but bringing in a proven veteran run producer like J.D. Martinez to anchor the middle of the lineup could elevate their offense,” Reuter noted. “It would also represent a nice homecoming for the 37-year-old, who originally emerged with the Tigers in 2014.”
Martinez had a less-than-stellar season with the New York Mets in 2024, batting only .235 with 16 home runs, 69 RBIs, and a .725 OPS. He reached base at a .320 average, with a slugging percentage of .406 and an OPS+ of 106.
However, a change in environment could be advantageous for him. While Detroit doesn’t typically spend heavily on free agents, Martinez should fit within their budget.
The veteran slugger played for the Tigers from 2014 to 2017, earning six All-Star selections and three Silver Slugger awards, and he was part of the Boston Red Sox team that won the championship in 2018.
Adding Martinez could provide valuable experience to a young clubhouse, helping the Tigers make strides in their progress for 2025.
Leave a Reply