Many questions will certainly be raised about the Padres in the offseason, but none may be as intriguing as one specific pitcher's role and the contract he could have in the winter.
Concerning his options for both his own option and the club's choice to exercise theirs, Nick Martinez's role on the team this year could impact how long his future San Diego tenure is.
"Martinez is making $10 million this season. The Padres have an option after the season that, if exercised, would assure Martinez $16 million in both ‘24 and ‘25. If the Padres decline that option, Martinez can exercise his $8 million option for next season and would have another option after the ’24 season at $8 million. Honest truth, I haven’t looked to next year,” Martinez said. “The first reaction is I think I’m valuable. I can start, I can relieve. I can throw high-leverage situations. I have fun. I love these guys in this clubhouse. This team makes it easy for me to kind of put myself out there.”
Playing the role of reliever, closer and starter this year, Martinez has been a Swiss army knife of sorts for Bob Melvin's pitching ranks.
After a stint overseas, the Friars signed Martinez to his current contract and he's been a valuable piece in any capacity the team has needed him to be.
Though his 3.73 ERA won't pop off of any stat sheets, San Diego might not have enough space for his versatility on the roster due to impending free agents Blake Snell and Josh Hader.
Should the Friars bring back both of them, Martinez may be the odd man out at Petco, but should both be let go, the righty could play an even bigger role for the team in 2024.
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