Ex-Dodgers star J.D. Martinez claims Pete Alonso played huge part in recruiting him to NY Mets
J.D. Martinez has joined the New York Mets on a one-year, $12 million deal
J.D. Martinez (L) and Pete Alonso (R) [Image via Imago]
This past Thursday, the New York Mets finally got their hands on a new designated hitter (DH). The team landed former Los Angeles Dodgers star J.D. Martinez on a one-year, $12 million deal. He has now revealed how Pete Alonso played a huge part in this deal.
J.D. Martinez was one of the top free agents this offseason. Despite his vast experience in the major leagues many teams refrained from going all out for him. A reason for this was the contract demands made by his agent Scott Boras.
As per reports, the Mets themselves were not sure about him a few weeks ago. However, as soon as his price decreased a bit, the New York side wasted no time in adding an experienced player to their roster. Speaking to the media regarding his move, Martinez claimed that Pete Alonso was “very adamant” of getting him.
Pete was really fired up. Pete was very adamant about getting me over here and reaching out. We have the same agency. He was kind of like, ‘Come over here.’ And I was like ‘Dude, I’d love to.’ He, I would say, was very forward with making it known to them that he wanted me here.
J.D. Martinez on Pete Alonso on SNY.
The addition of Martinez has also led to questions regarding what impact will it have on the team and how they could line-up with him. Well for starters, he provides some much-needed protection behind Pete Alonso.
Apart from that, his experience could help out in thе dеvеlорmеnt оf еmеrgіng рlауеrs lіkе Mаrk Vіеntоs аnd Brеtt Bаtу. Prior to his signing, the expectation was that Vientos would take the heavy responsibility of the team’s DH in the upcoming season. With this signing though, the pressure on Vientos’ young shoulders comes down a bit.
J.D. Martinez to start NY Mets career in minor leagues
While the addition of J.D. Martinez gives the New York Mets a massive boost in their offence, they will not start the season directly with him. The 36-year-old will not be part of the Opening Day roster and will instead start his Mets career in the minor leagues.
The team has decided to send him down the minor leagues to build up some at-bats. This is due to the fact that he has missed large portion of the Spring training and might not be ready to immediately go up to the plate and face some major league pitchers.
As per reports from the New York Post, Martinez will stay in the minor leagues for at least ten days. After building up some momentum in the minors, he will be called up and become a part of the team.
Last season Martinez batted with an average of .271 and hit 33 home runs for the Dodgers. The Mets would be hoping for him to replicate this sort of numbers as they aim to turn around the disappointments from 2023 in the upcoming season.
