Dodgers Fans Stunned! Free Agent Target Nick Martinez Shocks Everyone by Signing with NL Central Squad – Uncover the Surprising Twist and What It Means for LA!

Free agent pitcher Nick Martinez has secured a lucrative two-year, $26 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. While initially considered a potential signing for the Dodgers, Martinez has opted to join the Reds, agreeing to a two-year deal with an opt-out clause after the first year.

Martinez first entered the Majors in 2014 with the Texas Rangers but faced challenges in the initial four years of his career. Subsequently, he ventured to Japan for four seasons before returning to the MLB with the San Diego Padres.

In San Diego, Martinez experienced a career resurgence, showcasing his versatility as both a starter and reliever. Over the last two seasons, he made 110 appearances, starting 19 games and maintaining a 3.45 ERA with an impressive 201 strikeouts.

Right-hander Nick Martinez and the Cincinnati Reds are in agreement on a two-year, $26 million contract that includes an opt-out after the first year, sources tell ESPN. Martinez, 33, opted out of the last two years and $16 million of his deal with San Diego to reach free agency.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 30, 2023

In the previous season, Martinez delivered a commendable 3.43 ERA in 110.1 innings, ultimately earning a significant payday in free agency. Despite the Dodgers expressing interest in Martinez due to his versatile skill set, he has chosen to join the Reds, a team actively seeking starting pitching during this offseason.

Martinez now joins a roster of free agent starting pitchers finding new homes, including Sonny Gray, Kyle Gibson, Luis Severino, and former Dodger Lance Lynn. Although the Dodgers have yet to make moves in the starting pitching market, they remain connected to players like Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Martinez’s former teammate in San Diego, Blake Snell.