According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the San Francisco Giants made a contract offer to slugger J.D. Martinez, but Martinez declined the offer. Martinez, a six-time All-Star, is coming off a strong season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, posting a .271 batting average with 33 home runs and 103 RBI in 2023. Despite his impressive performance, Martinez remains unsigned along with several other top free-agent hitters this offseason.
Following Martinez’s rejection, the Giants have pivoted to sign a different veteran power hitter to serve as their designated hitter. They had also previously signed free agents such as Jung-hoo Lee and Jordan Hicks earlier in the offseason.
The news surrounding Martinez’s decision not to join the Giants may contribute to ongoing discussions about San Francisco’s appeal to free agents. Giants legend Buster Posey recently suggested that issues such as drugs and crime in the city might deter potential signees. Additionally, a current Giants player mentioned hearing similar complaints about the city’s drawbacks.
