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Former Toronto Blue Jays backstop Russell Martin is mulling over offers after dealing with earlier offseason family matter.
According to Jon Heyman of the MLB Network, Russell Martin has received interest from the Mets, Athletics, and a few other teams. It appears that the former Blue Jays catcher was non-commital and turned down offers with teams earlier in the offseason as he was dealing with a personal family matter.
Martin and his longtime partner Elisabeth Chicoine welcomed their second daughter into the world at the beginning of November. However, there is no indication that the newborn has experienced any health issues.
The 37-year old still has ambitions of continuing his MLB career and will undoubtedly find a job in a backup/mentoring role with a team in the coming weeks. Martin is a wealth of knowledge and still a prominent figure in an MLB clubhouse.
Mets, A’s and a few other teams have checked in on free agent catcher Russell Martin. He’s turned down a few offers as he prioritizes a family situation, as @Joelsherman1 1st mentioned. But he’d still like to play.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 28, 2020
Hear free agent vet C Russell Martin intending to play this season. Has turned down few opportunities to tend to family matter. Expected in next few weeks to be back in market and resume talks with teams about the 2020 season.
— Joel Sherman (@Joelsherman1) February 15, 2020
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Martin spent last season with the Dodgers seeing action in 83 games for Los Angeles. The Canadian hit .229/.337/.300 with 46 hits including six home runs and a 0.7 WAR in 249 plate appearances.
The veteran also made four scoreless relief appearances last season with the Dodgers surrendering just two hits while fanning a pair in four innings of work on the bump. Not bad considering, Martin also played third base (21 games), shortstop (3 games) and left field (1 game) in his final season with the Blue Jays in 2018.
In terms of 2020, Oakland appears to be the most likely fit for the 14-year veteran. Martin has spent six seasons in California with the Dodgers and he would be a positive influence and insurance plan for starting catcher Sean Murphy.
The Mets could also use Martin in a tandem with catcher Wilson Ramos if the Canuck wishes to return to New York. Martin spent two seasons with the Yankees and is no stranger to the hustle and bustle lifestyle associated with the Empire State.
Father Time is definitely catching up with the former All-Star, however, don’t be surprised if the backstop looks to coaching once he officially hangs up the spikes. In the meantime, Martin will exhaust whatever is left in the tank for his new employer.