The Los Angeles Dodgers signed J.D. Martinez to a one-year contract for the 2023 season, aiming to support struggling superstar Mookie Betts, who has experienced a downturn in performance. Martinez, coming off an impressive All-Star season, is expected to predominantly fill the designated hitter role. Their previous bond as teammates on the Red Sox is pivotal, especially as Betts sought Martinez's advice on improving his hitting. Manager Dave Roberts expresses optimism about Betts' swing, noting that his hitting appears more aligned with his true capabilities despite recent struggles.
Betts then went 1-for-4 in the series finale against the St. Louis Cardinals, though manager Dave Roberts believes his swings - even on outs - are reason for optimism.
"I think the hits are Mookie-esque as far as hitting the ball hard to the pull side. Up the middle, hitting it flat to the shortstop's left, that's kind of what he does," Roberts said this week.
Martinez was coming off an All-Star season in which he batted .274/.341/.448 with 43 doubles, 16 home runs and 119 wRC+ for the Boston Red Sox.
The signing reunited Martinez with Mookie Betts, as the two had become close friends during their time together on the Red Sox.
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