Padres Free Agent Nick Martinez Signs With Cincinnati Reds

A former Padre is off the board.

Former Padres right-handed pitcher Nick Martinez has found a new home. Late Wednesday night, Martinez reached a two-year agreement with the Cincinnati Reds, per ESPN's Jeff Passan and the New York Post's Jon Heyman. The deal is worth $26 million with an opt-out after the first year.

Right-hander Nick Martinez and the Cincinnati Reds are in agreement on a two-year, $26 million contract that includes an opt-out after the first year, sources tell ESPN. Martinez, 33, opted out of the last two years and $16 million of his deal with San Diego to reach free agency.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 30, 2023

Martinez elected to opt out of the final two years and $16 million on his deal with the Padres, and made an extra $10 million in free agency.

Martinez has enjoyed his best years as a pro since joining the Padres in 2022. Over the last two seasons, Martinez has pitched 216.2 innings and has an ERA of 3.45. He's made 110 appearances, with 19 of them coming as starts.

Martinez has carved out a nice role in the Majors after struggling in his first stint with the Texas Rangers from 2014 to 2017.

Martinez then spent four years in Japan, before coming back over to the Majors and finding success in San Diego.

Now, Martinez has earned himself a nice payday with Cincinnati, where he'll likely get a chance to start.

Congrats to Martinez on the new contract, and best of luck in Cincinnati.