Padres News: Nick Martinez Discusses Role in The Rotation

Nick Martinez doing whatever it takes to win

Nick Martinez came into spring training the year planning to be in the Padres rotation every fifth day. After struggling his first four starts, the Padres decided to move him back to the bullpen where he's spent most of his career.

On April 26th, when Martinez came out of the bullpen for the first time this season, Martinez has been one of the best relievers in baseball. 

Currently, the right hander has a 1.73 ERA when coming in for relief with a 25/7 K/BB ratio in 26 innings of work. 

Although he came into the season expecting to be a starter, Martinez is just doing whatever he can to help the Padres win, as he told The Athletic.

“They also know that I’m up for whatever helps the team, and my priorities are to win a World Series,” Martinez added. “So whatever helps us get there, whatever puts a ring on my finger, I’m down for that.” (via The Athletic)

Over the offseason, Martinez bet on himself as he declined the last year of his player option to resign with the Padres for 3-years, $26 million. 

When he signed his contract, there were many incentives included that he has cashed in already this season. 

By already making 10 relief appearances, Martinez earned a $100,000 bonus that is added onto his base pay. 

Even though Martinez is finding success as a relief pitcher, he still wants to start some games. 

Another incentive in his contract is if he starts a certain amount of games he will earn a $500,000 bonus.

Even though Martinez wants to be able to cash in as much money as he can before his club option this offseason, he understands that starting is not what the Friars need from him right now.

“It’s pretty apparent what’s going on, and our starters look good. Our starters look really good,” Martinez said. “And so they know that I’m available, and they know that I still want to start." (via The Athletic)