Dodgers News: JD Martinez Opens Up About Career, Swing and Mentality to MLB Network

The new Dodgers slugger takes a deep dive into his mindset while coming to the plate in a game.

The Dodgers made one of the better under-the-radar signings of the offseason when the club added slugger J.D. Martinez on a one year deal. In his first camp with the team, Martinez joined MLB Network analyst Yonder Alonso to talk about where he's at in his career, his mindset on hitting, and to take a look back at some of the superstars he's played alongside over the years.

Perhaps the best look from the "30 Clubs in 30 Days" segment was the look into J.D.'s game plan while at the plate. MLB Network posted a clip on Twitter.

In his first #SpringTraining as a Dodger, J.D. Martinez walks @YonderalonsoU through his mentality at the plate and the physics of his swing.@Dodgers | @JDMartinez28 pic.twitter.com/M84DvXxs3X

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 24, 2023

One focus was on Martinez's pre-at-bat setup. The slugger is often seen sort of pushing the bat forward with his right hand. He said in the clip that the thought process behind it is about "staying behind the ball" but in his own way. 

It's an interesting mindset and perhaps not traditional amongst the old school mindset you might see with youth coaches today.

Martinez signed with LA to try and win another World Series championship in his career. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he'll be the every day DH in 2023. By J.D.'s standards, 2022 was a down year. Still, he slugged 43 doubles and got on base 34% of the time. Being reunited with friend and hitting coach Robert Van Scoyoc will only help the five-time All-Star in his quest to return to form as one of the premiere sluggers in the game.