Cincinnati Reds Land Nick Martinez on $21.05 Million Deal, Bolstering Pitching Depth for 2025
The Cincinnati Reds made a significant move to strengthen their pitching staff, officially agreeing to terms with veteran right-hander Nick Martinez on a two-year, $21.05 million contract. The deal, which was finalized after weeks of speculation and interest from multiple clubs, provides the Reds with a versatile arm capable of filling both rotation and bullpen roles.
Martinez, 34, joins Cincinnati after spending the last two seasons with the San Diego Padres, where he was praised for his adaptability and durability. With the Reds entering the 2025 campaign looking to compete in the increasingly tight National League Central, Martinez’s arrival could prove pivotal.
A Deal to Address Depth and Experience
The contract, valued at $21.05 million over two years, underscores Cincinnati’s commitment to improving a pitching staff that showed promise but struggled with consistency in 2024. Martinez’s flexibility made him an attractive target. He has started and relieved with effectiveness, making him an ideal fit for a team still shaping its rotation behind Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, and Nick Lodolo.
According to league sources, Martinez will earn $10 million in 2025 and $11.05 million in 2026, with no deferred money. The deal does not include any options, locking the veteran in through the 2026 season.
General Manager Nick Krall emphasized the importance of adding a proven arm who brings leadership and stability. “Nick is someone who can step into whatever role we ask and execute. That’s valuable, especially with a young staff,” Krall said. “He’s shown he can handle high-leverage relief work, and he can also go five, six innings if needed.”
Veteran Presence with Global Experience
Originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2011, Martinez pitched four seasons with Texas before heading to Japan, where he spent four years with the Nippon-Ham Fighters and Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. He returned to MLB in 2022 with the Padres and posted solid numbers over two campaigns.
In 2024, Martinez compiled a 3.69 ERA across 122 innings, working as both a starter and a long reliever. His ability to induce weak contact and throw strikes has made him a dependable option, especially in multi-inning roles.
While not overpowering, Martinez’s five-pitch mix includes a deceptive changeup, cutter, and two-seam fastball that keeps hitters off balance. His return to form in the majors after his stint in Japan has been one of the more underappreciated storylines in recent years.
“Going to Japan changed everything for me,” Martinez said during his introductory press conference on Saturday. “I learned how to pitch, how to read hitters better, and how to take care of my body. I’m excited to bring that experience to Cincinnati and help this team win.”
Impact on Reds’ Pitching Strategy
The Reds have spent much of the offseason evaluating how to solidify a rotation that has shown flashes of brilliance but has been hampered by injuries and inconsistency. Greene and Abbott remain foundational pieces, and the return of Lodolo from injury provides optimism. Adding Martinez gives manager David Bell flexibility in managing innings and matchups.
Martinez could slot into the No. 4 or No. 5 starter role or be used as a bridge in high-leverage middle innings. His experience pitching in various roles and his willingness to adapt make him a useful chess piece.
“Depth is something we always talk about, and Nick gives us that, and more,” Bell said. “He’s a competitor. He wants the ball. He’s a perfect example of the kind of teammate who puts the team first.”
Reds Signal Intent to Compete
The signing of Martinez is also a signal that the Reds are serious about contending in 2025. After narrowly missing the playoffs in 2024, the front office made it clear that supplementing its young core with seasoned players was a priority.
With rising stars like Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand leading the offensive charge, the focus has shifted to reinforcing the pitching staff. Martinez joins Emilio Pagán and Lucas Sims as key veterans expected to mentor and stabilize the bullpen and rotation alike.
The Reds were one of several teams linked to Martinez early in free agency, including the Pirates, Marlins, and Blue Jays, but ultimately landed him by offering both a multi-year commitment and the opportunity to play a prominent role.
Looking Ahead
While Martinez may not be the ace of the staff, his value lies in his ability to anchor the middle of the rotation or provide reliable innings out of the bullpen. With durability, leadership, and a proven track record in multiple leagues, the Reds are betting that Martinez’s experience will help carry them through the rigors of a 162-game season.
For Martinez, the move to Cincinnati represents a chance to contribute meaningfully on a team with playoff aspirations.
“I see a group that’s hungry and on the rise,” he said. “I want to be part of that journey.”
The Reds hope his presence helps them reach the next step.
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