Dodgers News: MLB Insider Believes JD Martinez Loves Leadership Role in LA
J.D. Martinez may be a new member of this Dodgers clubhouse, but he is not shying away from being a vocal leader and sharing his experience with the team. Award winning sportswriter Peter Gammons tweeted out some of his findings after spending some time at Camelback Ranch in Arizona this week. One thing he picked up, he believes the designated hitter will prosper in Los Angeles this season.
Martinez has spoken about his reasoning for taking less money to come to LA. He wants to win. But he’s also expanded and added his excitement about some of the team’s young core and wanting to work with them.
The Dodgers acquired Martinez on a one-year, $10 million deal in December and are expecting him to play a role in filling the absence of Justin Turner. The three-time Silver Slugger recipient has all the experience under his belt to foster a winning environment.
Over his 12-year MLB career, the 35-year-old has hit .288 with 282 home runs and 899 RBI, so he is expected to bring a lot of thump to the LA lineup following the departure of stalwarts like Cody Bellinger and Turner.
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As a five-time All-Star, Martinez has produced successful results with his former team, the Boston Red Sox. Last season, the veteran hit .274/.341/.448 with 43 doubles, 16 home runs, and 62 RBI across 139 games.
Martinez has to be feeling good coming off a great season and must feel even better now that he is reunited with familiar faces in Los Angeles. The righty is paired up with hitting coach Van Scoyoc and his 2018 championship teammate, Mookie Betts, once again. With those three guys all working together again, it could be a scary sight!
Within such a winning environment, Martinez is likely to thrive and feel comfortable enough to guide the younger talent along the way.
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