Former Mets Star's Juan Soto Message After Retirement Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | Last updated Feb 13, 2025 4:55 PM ET

The New York Mets had a big MLB offseason. Signing four-time All-Star Juan Soto to a historic 15-year, $765 million contract, New York landed MLB's active leader in OBP (.421) to pair with Francisco Lindor atop a deep lineup.

Luring Soto away from the New York Yankees where he helped win an American League pennant last season, the Mets did not stop there this offseason. Re-signing Pete Alonso to a two-year, $54 million contract, New York brought back its right-handed slugger to play first base.

While it was a busy transaction period for the Mets, it seems one of their free agents will not be coming back, despite making the decision not to retire.

It was reported by John Heyman of the New York Post on Jan. 30 that 37-year-old designated hitter J.D. Martinez had decided not to retire, and planned on exploring free agency.

Still unsigned, Martinez joined Heyman and his colleague Joel Sherman on "The Show" podcast. Among other things, Martinez got honest about Soto and his record contract with the Mets.

"You have a guy like Soto," Martinez said. "He fits all their numbers, he lines up, checks off, the computer loves him and you see a frenzy for a guy like that. But all of a sudden as you get older, the computer doesn't like you as much and everything kind of slows down and the market slows down."

Martinez was speaking about the challenge of seeking a free agency deal at his age, because while the right-handed slugger owns a career .863 OPS, he recognizes younger players are valued higher.

Despite his frustration with what has proven to be a slow free agency market, Martinez said the Mets are going to be "a problem" for MLB with their new-look lineup headlined by Soto.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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