MLB Roundup 11/9: J.D. Martinez is asking for a lot of money

J.D. Martinez and Scott Boras are looking for $200 million

According to ESPN’s Jerry Crasnick, Scott Boras — who represents J.D. Martinez — is seeked a $200 million deal here. Martinez, of course, is the best power bat available in free agency and thus is likely to be among the top priorities for the Red Sox front office. For what it’s worth, MLB Trade Rumors predicts that Martinez will receive a six-year deal worth $150 million. At first, the $200 million number is undeniably jarring. Of course, we’re talking about negotiations through the media from the player’s side, so obviously the initial ask is going to be high. Boras would not be doing his job if he was not trying to get the most money possible for his client, and part of doing that is making it clear that they expect a lot of money. I would be surprised if Martinez got this much money, but maybe somebody will be willing to pay it. It only takes one team to be willing to give out that contract, and if Boras and Martinez can get that then good on the agent for doing his job incredibly well.

• It was something of a slow news day outside of the Red Sox world, though there was a surprising report that indicated the A’s were interested in Christian Yelich and Marcell Ozuna of the Marlins. I would guess it’s not terribly likely that they’ll pull this kind of deal off, but that they are looking to buy is bad news for the Red Sox, who could be a fit for a Jed Lowrie/Khris Davis trade.
• Jay Bruce could be the backup plan for a lot of teams look at Martinez, and he reportedly wants a five-year deal worth $80-$90 million. Again, this is just how early negotiations go, although that AAV doesn’t seem terribly far off.