The Arizona Diamondbacks have reportedly agreed to a five-year contract extension with right-handed reliever Justin Martínez, pending a physical. The deal is worth $18 million and includes a $2 million signing bonus, with salaries gradually increasing over the next five seasons.
Additionally, the contract features two club options for 2030 and 2031, potentially extending the deal to a total of $39 million if performance-based escalators are met. This contract secures Martínez through his pre-arbitration and arbitration years, while also allowing the Diamondbacks to retain him for two additional seasons if they choose to exercise the options.
Martínez’s Rapid Development and the Strategic Benefits of His Contract Extension
At 23 years old, Martínez has shown glimpses of elite potential despite limited major league experience. His 2023 debut was rocky, as he allowed 14 earned runs over just ten innings. However, he rebounded in the following season with an impressive 2.48 ERA across 72 2/3 innings.
His 29.5% strikeout rate and 58.9% ground ball rate demonstrated his ability to dominate hitters, though his 11.7% walk rate suggests room for improvement. His combination of overpowering velocity and a diverse pitch mix, featuring a four-seam fastball, sinker, splitter, and slider, has made him a valuable asset in Arizona’s bullpen.
Justin Martínez (MLB)Martínez’s extension reflects mutual benefits for both the player and the team. For the Diamondbacks, locking up a high-upside reliever early in his career is a calculated move to solidify their bullpen. For Martínez, securing guaranteed financial stability is a wise choice, given his unconventional path to the majors.
Originally an outfielder, he transitioned to pitching in 2018 and signed for a modest $50,000 bonus. Additionally, he has faced challenges such as control issues and a Tommy John surgery in 2021, making long-term financial security an appealing option despite his high potential.
Comparable Contracts and Martínez’s Potential Role in Diamondbacks’ Bullpen Strategy
Martínez’s deal aligns with past contracts for pre-arbitration relievers. A notable comparison is Emmanuel Clase, who signed a $20 million contract with the Cleveland Guardians in 2022 under similar service time conditions. Clase, despite concerns surrounding a PED suspension, quickly became one of the league’s premier closers.
The Diamondbacks are likely hoping for a similar trajectory with Martínez, though even if he merely performs as a solid setup man, his contract will remain a team-friendly investment.
While Martínez has the potential to become the Diamondbacks’ closer, manager Torey Lovullo has not committed to a strict bullpen hierarchy. Instead, he plans to utilize a mix of relievers—including left-handers A.J. Puk and Joe Mantiply, as well as righties Martínez and Kevin Ginkel—based on matchups.
This approach allows flexibility, giving Martínez the opportunity to establish himself as a high-leverage arm, whether in setup duties or closing situations. If his development continues, he could become a key fixture in the Diamondbacks’ bullpen for years to come.
