Arizona Diamondbacks: Grading the Outfielders
J.D. Martinez
The best was saved for last, you didn’t think there could be a discussion about the Diamondbacks outfielders, and it wouldn’t include J.D. Martinez.
The team acquired Martinez several days before the trade deadline for a small package of prospects that included Sergio Alcantara, Jose King, and Dawel Lugo.
The Diamondbacks paid a small price for someone who had a profound impact on the lineup.
Martinez had a reputation of being a very accomplished hitter that could hit home runs, and he lived up to that reputation.
The outfielder accumulated a .302 average and 1.107 OPS in 62 games with 13 doubles, 29 home runs, 65 RBI and a 168 OPS+.
He was a source of instant offense for the team and hitting after Paul Goldschmidt was the perfect spot in the lineup for him.
The team had Martinez for just a couple of months, but it seemed like he was with the Diamondbacks for the entire year.
Martinez was a great fit with the clubhouse, including several times during games where he and Goldschmidt would strike up a conversation.
Martinez will be one of the hottest free agents this offseason, and it will take some maneuvering by Hazen and the Diamondbacks’ front office to sign him long-term.
Grade:
A++. . . . J.D. MARTINEZ
"Arizona Diamondbacks 2017 Season Review: April"
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