The Indians have agreed with outfielder Leonys Martin on an arbitration deal for the 2019 season, according to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports (Twitter links). He’ll earn $3MM under the contract, though as with most arb deals it is not fully guaranteed at this time.
Martin, 30, was acquired in the middle of the 2018 season to be a key contributor down the stretch. After six productive games in Cleveland, though, he was sidelined by a terrifying bacterial infection that cost him the remainder of the season — and nearly much more. While there are surely still some roadblocks left to hurdle, it’s immensely promising to hear that the Cleveland organization has cause to believe Martin will be able to play in the coming season.
Once a regular with the Rangers and Mariners, Martin had a disappointing 2017 campaign. Still, he secured a $1.75MM contract with the Tigers, who placed a bet that Martin’s bat could catch back up somewhat to his productive glove and legs.
That’s just what happened, as Martin turned in a .255/.323/.425 slash with 11 long balls in 353 plate appearances before he hit the shelf. Based on those numbers, MLBTR and contributor Matt Swartz had projected Martin to command a $2.8MM salary in his final trip through the arb process. Notably, Martin’s case included some unusual factors, including his initial guarantee as an international free agent and the fact that he had previously played for a higher arbitration salary before signing for less as a free agent.
Kudos to Cleveland, looking like first class organization.
But don’t forget Arb salaries act like club options — 30 days. That’s how long teams have to guarantee Arb salaries for yr.
Using the money saved by not picking up Guyer’s option in a positive way. Hope he’s completely healthy. That’s most important.
Cleveland traded Willi Castro for this guy, they need to keep him. Willi is a very valuable guy who can surprise you if you aren’t watching him. Willi is a great fit in Detroit.
I really liked Castro, but I’m thinking they like Tyler Freeman more, which made the trade easier to take. And, of course, Lindor……
If they didn’t think he could return to baseball, then it surely would’ve been better to cut their losses. However, it looks promising that he’ll be fine and worst case scenario they’re out a little under $500K.
Let’s hope that good health returns, that he has a full recovery, and, least important, that he has a productive season.
Martin is a much better option than any of their departing FA outfielders except Brantley, of course. Can’t complain about this move even if they intend to use him in a platoon.
This is really awesome news. I haven’t heard much on Leonys after his recent hospital stay. Still going to miss watching him play for the Tigers, but grateful for his recovery!
This is a solid move. Brantley likely will sign elsewhere. Zimmer is out until atleast the all star break. Chiz is going to have trouble getting a contract unless he’s completely healthy. There’s a ton of question marks in the Indians outfield.
Right now if I’m playing armchair GM, I’m starting Martin in left, Allen in center, and Naquin in right. Would be nice to have other options but there’s a ton of potential especially when Zimmer eventually makes his way back