The Mets are among teams that are interested in free agent J.D. Martinez, and it has been reported that the interest is mutual.
Martinez would fill in the DH slot if acquired. Even though the Mets are over the fourth-tier “Steve Cohen tax,” owner Steve Cohen has apparently given the go-ahead to ramp up discussions with the intention to sign Martinez. If the Mets lock up J.D. then New York would have to pay a 110% tax.
The Mets like Martinez, who is a potential answer to solve the team’s long-running lineup issue of protection for star Pete Alonso. Martinez has declined at least one other offer and both-way interest from him and the Angels puts the Mets in a potential bidding war.
J.D. Martinez smashed 33 home runs and posted 103 RBIs, while hitting .271 with a .893 OPS in 113 games with the Dodgers last season.