Well, this one was certainly a surprise! The Rays always seem to be on the prowl for pitching, but signing a renowned free agent like this is likely a shocker for the baseball world. After this move, the rotation seems to be flooded which is a good problem to have, but may lead to more moves to level out the roster. With spring training only a few weeks away, the competition will be fierce for a few key positions.
Rays sign former Reds starting pitcher Nick Martinez to a one-year deal
The Super Bowl is over and the flood gates have opened for starting pitchers in the free agent market. Erick Fedde, Chris Paddack, and Nick Martinez have all found new homes in the span of a few hours. It was bound to happen after left-handed ace Framber Valdez joined the Tigers, but no one could’ve predicted the Rays would join the party.
This deal with Martinez gives the Rays more than a No. 2 or 3 starter. It gives them some flexibility. Before this signing, the rotation included ace lefty Shane McClanahan, Drew Rasmussen, Ryan Pepiot, Steven Matz, and Ian Seymour/Joe Boyle. Nick Martinez could fit comfortably into the No. 3 spot behind Rasmussen, or he could serve as a long reliever.
In his time with the Padres from 2022-2023, Martinez was primarily a reliever with a total of 19 starts in those two campaigns. This versatility was more likely to attract the Rays as they started the infamous “opener” where a relief pitcher starts the game by tossing an inning or two and therefore, lightening the load for the scheduled starter. It may not be necessary for him to be employed as an opener, but the options are aplenty.
Throughout the 35-year-old’s career, he’s advanced in production. After a slow start with the Rangers, he decided to revive his career through a tour in Japan. As a member of the foreign league, Martinez went 26-26 with a 2.93 ERA. These impressive numbers led to a second chance MLB opportunity that he certainly made the most of. Now, the Miami native is continuing his MLB path in his home state.