Chris Martin was one of the most underrated pitchers in MLB in 2023, and he was a workhorse in the Boston Red Sox's bullpen during his two seasons with the club.
Martin posted a 2.16 ERA in 95.2 innings with the Sox between 2023-24. The free agent clocked a 1.05 ERA in his first year in Boston, the lowest ERA for any qualified pitcher in the league that season.
The 38-year-old told reporters shortly after last season ended that 2025 may be his last year pitching professionally. Martin's recent success with the Red Sox and the short deal he seeks will make him a prime relief pitcher candidate for teams in need of a reliable setup arm.
Despite Martin's age and his thoughts about retirement, he's as athletic and electric as ever. Here are three potential destinations where the veteran could finish out his career strong.
3 potential free agent destinations for former Red Sox reliever Chris Martin
Red Sox
A recent report from Christopher Smith of MassLive said Martin is "open" to returning to the Red Sox on a one-year deal. Chief baseball officer Craig Breslow also said Boston would be open to a reunion with the veteran. The two sides should make it happen.
Martin was reliable throughout his two years with the Red Sox and was one of the few veterans in the pitching staff. The team already knows him well, and he's shown few signs of regression as his career has gone on. Boston should bring Martin back for next year to focus on finding an ace rather than new arms for the 'pen.
Rangers
While Martin said he's "open" to a potential return to Boston for his final year in MLB, he also said he would prefer to pitch closer to his native Texas to finish his career. If that's the case, the Texas Rangers would be an ideal landing spot.
Three of the Rangers' 2024 relievers — David Robertson, Kirby Yates and Jose Leclerc — will depart in free agency and the organization declined Andrew Chafin's option. Texas could use a veteran like Martin to make up for those losses, and if he hopes to pitch in his home state, the two parties could be an easy match in free agency.
Astros
MLB.com's Brian McTaggart reported that another Texas team will also be in the reliever market. The Astros could use some experienced help in the back of their bullpen, and Martin would be a quality setup option for closer Josh Hader.
Rumors have recently surfaced that the Astros may try to trade Ryan Pressly, their existing setup option and former closer. Pressly has a no-trade clause in his contract, though, so it may be hard to move him. If Houston does trade Pressly, it could sign Martin to a cheaper, one-year deal to focus its free agent spending efforts on bringing back Alex Bregman.