Red Sox DH: J.D. Martinez
The first of the big names that will likely head for greener pastures after the 2022 season. Julio Daniel Martinez has been the lifeblood of the Red Sox offense since signing in 2018 and was a key leader in raising banner #9 that season. Even though we have no idea what the next CBA will contain it’s believed that the Universal DH will come to fruition which opens the door huge for J.D. to find a new home.
Dave Dombrowski was able to get Martinez for a steal of a contract back in ’18 and the Red Sox reaped the reward ever since. They’ve been able to stave off what’s about to happen next winter as the slugger has chosen to forego his many opt-outs and remain in Boston.
J.D. had a rough season in 2020 but was able to bounce back to the tune of .286/.349/.518 in 2021 while socking 28 dingers with 99 RBI. He also led all of Major League Baseball with 42 doubles. Now that he’s officially in a contract year I would expect nothing less than his 2018 numbers as the 34-year-old is searching for one final payday.
If the Universal DH doesn’t become a reality that may boost Chaim’s chances of bringing J.D. back but it feels like the club is moving toward a possible Rafael Devers swap to DH going forward. Martinez has been a phenomenal player for the Red Sox during his years here and is a massive reason for their success in 2018 and 2021. He’ll be a hard one to say goodbye to.