Martinez shows why Reds are confident in him as a starter
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The consummate Swiss Army knife of pitchers, Nick Martinez can do it all for a staff: starting, short relief, long relief, high leverage or low leverage — whatever it takes. But for perhaps the first time as a Major Leaguer, there is no ambiguity about Martinez’s role for the Reds heading into the 2025 season.
Manager Terry Francona made that clear when asked about Martinez on Sunday.
“Oh, I think we certainly view him as a starter,” Francona said. “I know there’s some versatility there and he’s willing to do it, but bouncing guys around unless you have to is not what we’re shooting for.”
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It makes sense, especially since Martinez is making starter’s money this year after he accepted Cincinnati’s $21.05 million free-agent qualifying offer in November. The right-hander’s 2024 numbers also support the decision.
In 42 games last season, including 16 starts, Martinez was 10-7 with a 3.10 ERA and a 4.0 bWAR. He posted a 2.42 ERA in 11 starts after returning to the rotation full time on Aug. 5, including an 0.83 ERA over his final five starts. After the season, the 34-year-old exercised the opt-out clause in his two-year, $26 million contract.
“If [Francona] wants me in the rotation, then obviously I will give it everything I’ve got,” Martinez said. “I do prefer being a starter, but if something happens that we need some help in the bullpen, I’m up for that too.
“For an athlete, we really love being relied upon. That definitely brings a lot of confidence.”
