The Texas Rangers continue to bolster their new-look bullpen, signing veteran reliever and former Ranger Chris Martin on Monday to a one-year contract worth $5.5 million, according to Robert Murray. While the actual amount is unknown, it appears to be a wise decision by Texas, since the 38-year-old, who will turn 39 this season, posted a 3.45 ERA in 44.1 innings pitched last season with the Boston Red Sox.
Martin avoided injury last season, but he did miss some time due to psychological difficulties. The Arlington, Texas native will most likely retire after the 2025 MLB season, with his final team being his hometown Texas Rangers.
Martin reportedly turned down a considerably more lucrative offer from the Red Sox to sign with Texas, according to Red Sox reporter Rob Bradford. In terms of “lucrative,” it seems to reason that Boston offered him a greater value sum rather than a multi-year contract, given Martin’s publicly stated desire to retire after the 2025 season.
It also stands to reason that at 38 years old, Martin wants the chance to win a title in his final season, and the Rangers are a very appealing option in terms of contending, particularly over the Red Sox, who are more of a wild card in a very strong American League East. Martin also has a certain connection with Texas. He spent portions of two seasons with the team before being moved to the Atlanta Braves during the 2019 MLB Trade Deadline.
Finally, as previously stated, there is an evident hometown element at play here. Martin is from Arlington, grew up a Rangers fan, and there’s nothing like retiring with your hometown team after a long and successful career.
Martin is likely to pitch in the seventh or eighth inning. Texas might still hunt for another seasoned reliever with closing expertise to balance out their roster. Regardless, Martin is entering a fantastic scenario with the Texas Rangers.
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