Mets and Athletics Reportedly Among Teams Interested in Russell Martin
By Jackson Thompson
Free agent catcher Russell Martin is reportedly getting offers from teams on both coasts as he tends to a family situation. As the best backstop left on the market, Martin is reportedly garnering interest from the New York Mets and Oakland Athletics.
Martin last played with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2019, and has turned down opportunities to sign with other teams since hitting free agency. He is currently putting family first, but he has said that he plans to play in 2020.
Mets, A’s and a few other teams have checked in on free agent catcher Russell Martin. He’s turned down a few offers as he prioritizes a family situation, as @Joelsherman1 1st mentioned. But he’d still like to play.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 28, 2020
At 37 years old, Martin could be approaching one of, if not his last MLB contract in 2020. In 2019 he batted .220 with six home runs and 20 RBI. He hit one home run in the 2019 postseason.
2️⃣3️⃣6️⃣ homers.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) September 1, 2019
With @russellmartin55's homer, the Dodgers’ 236 home runs this year are their most in franchise history for a season. pic.twitter.com/xx44rDpQIO
While Martin's presence at the dish was mediocre in 2019, his work behind the plate earned him a 1.2 fWAR. His defense could be of particular importance for the Mets, as they lack depth behind Wilson Ramos.