Dodgers News: Dave Roberts Keeping Fingers Crossed Regarding JD Martinez Health

When the news broke that the Dodgers had signed veteran slugger J.D. Martinez to a one-year deal that was worth $10 million last offseason, it was seen as a great move. Martinez had been one of the better hitters in baseball over the last few years, but a down 2022 year saw his value dip across the league.

He joined the Dodgers to try and get his value back up, and he has done just that and more. It has been a resurgent season for Martinez, and he has been one of the more productive members of the LA squad.

On the year, Martinez has hit .266 with 28 home runs and 91 runs batted in. At age 36, Martinez has continued to get better, and he has fit in with this team like a glove.

Manager Dave Roberts gave his thoughts on the year that Martinez has put together, and how he is hopeful that the veteran can stay healthy down the stretch of the season.

“He’s such a threat, he’s such a professional hitter. And he’s had a tremendous year as well. It was a big void not having him,” said Roberts. “It looks like we’re out of the woods (with his injury), and he’s taking very good care of himself. So I’m keeping my fingers crossed that that part of it is behind us, and we have him in the lineup every night.”

Per Dodgers Insider

Martinez had himself another solid night on Monday against the Detroit Tigers, hitting two home runs on the evening. It is games like this that show how effective he is within the Dodgers lineup, and why he will be relied upon heavily in the postseason.

He has dealt with some injuries this season, but he is hopeful that they are behind him. Martinez wants to be out there helping his teammates win games in whatever way he can.

“I got to be realistic with myself,” Martinez said. “It’s hard to get in a groove not knowing where my body is every day, just because I’m not in there every day. But I just got to stay on top of my rehab and exercises and controlling the stuff I can in the training room.”

Per Dodgers Insider

Signing him at just $10 million was a steal for the Dodgers front office. There is a strong argument to be made that he is one of the best contracts in the league, due to the value he brings.

As the year winds down, the Dodgers will look to Martinez to remain productive with his bat and bring his veteran leadership to the table. They have the goal of winning the World Series in mind, and now they just need to go out and execute the plan.

Photo Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

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