Veteran Red Sox reliever expected to get receive affordable contract in free agency

Mike Masala

Veteran Red Sox reliever expected to get receive affordable contract in free agency image

The Boston Red Sox have a number of key players from their 2024 roster who will hit free agency this offseason, including relief pitcher Chris Martin.

Martin originally signed a two-year contract, $13.5 million contract with the Red Sox before the 2023 season.

In his first year in Boston, he was unbelievable, posting a 1.05 ERA, 2.44 FIP, 1.032 WHIP and 8.1 K/9 in 55 games. This year, he fell off a bit while dealing with injuries and anxiety, posting a 3.45 ERA, 2.78 FIP, 1.128 WHIP and 10.2 K/9.

Now, at 38 years old, Martin is hitting free agency again, and according to Spotrac, he's projected to receive a one-year, $1.43 million deal this offseason.

Spotrac compared his production to Jesse Chavez (who signed a one-year, $740,000 deal), Adam Ottavino (who agreed to a one-year, $4.5 million deal), Daniel Hudson (who received $2 million in one year) and Cesar Valdez (who signed a one-year, $950,000 contract).

Boston needs to rebuild their bullpen for the 2025 season, but if he's going to get less than $2 million per year, the Red Sox should consider bringing him back as a middle-late option. However, it would also be understandable if they decide to move on and get younger.

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Mike Masala

Mike Masala Photo

Mike Masala previously served as the Managing Editor of USA TODAY's Dolphins Wire as well as a contributing writer at Patriots Wire. A lifelong New England resident, he is the self-proclaimed captain and lone member of the Laurence Maroney Fan Club. Follow on Twitter/X: @Mike_Masala