Veteran Red Sox reliever expected to get receive affordable contract in free agency

The Boston Red Sox have a number of key players from their 2024 roster who will hit free agency this offseason, including relief pitcher Chris Martin.

Martin originally signed a two-year contract, $13.5 million contract with the Red Sox before the 2023 season.

In his first year in Boston, he was unbelievable, posting a 1.05 ERA, 2.44 FIP, 1.032 WHIP and 8.1 K/9 in 55 games. This year, he fell off a bit while dealing with injuries and anxiety, posting a 3.45 ERA, 2.78 FIP, 1.128 WHIP and 10.2 K/9.

Now, at 38 years old, Martin is hitting free agency again, and according to Spotrac, he's projected to receive a one-year, $1.43 million deal this offseason.

Spotrac compared his production to Jesse Chavez (who signed a one-year, $740,000 deal), Adam Ottavino (who agreed to a one-year, $4.5 million deal), Daniel Hudson (who received $2 million in one year) and Cesar Valdez (who signed a one-year, $950,000 contract).

Boston needs to rebuild their bullpen for the 2025 season, but if he's going to get less than $2 million per year, the Red Sox should consider bringing him back as a middle-late option. However, it would also be understandable if they decide to move on and get younger.

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