The Arizona Diamondbacks have reached a significant agreement with standout right-handed pitcher Justin Martinez, securing his talents with a 5-year contract extension that runs through the 2029 season (starting in 2025). The deal includes club options for the 2030 and 2031 seasons, along with a conditional club option for 2032, ensuring stability for both Martinez and the franchise.
Justin Martinez’s Player Profile
- Age: 23
- Throws/Bats: Right/Right
- Height/Weight: 6’3”, 180 lbs
- MLB Bio: Rising star with a promising trajectory
2024 Season Highlights
Martinez shined in 2024, earning the title of D-backs’ Rookie of the Year by the Arizona Chapter of the BBWAA. His achievements include:
- A 5-6 record with 8 saves, a stellar 2.48 ERA (20 earned runs over 72.2 innings pitched), and an impressive 91 strikeouts in 64 games.
- Limiting opponents to a .221 batting average, showcasing his dominance on the mound.
Exceptional Performance Metrics
- Among National League relievers (minimum 50 games), Martinez ranked:
- 4th in home runs allowed per 9 innings (0.25 HR/9.0 IP)
- 5th in innings pitched and strikeouts
- His average fastball velocity of 100.3 MPH ranked first among NL relievers and third in the Majors, trailing only Mason Miller (OAK, 100.9 MPH) and Jhoan Duran (MIN, 100.5 MPH).
- With 413 pitches exceeding 100 MPH, he led the National League and was second in the Majors, behind Miller’s 503.
Career Milestones
- Martinez joined the D-backs’ organization in 2018 after being signed at just 16 years old, honing his skills at their academy in the Dominican Republic.
- Made his Major League debut in 2023 and has since accumulated:
- A 5-6 record with 9 saves, a 3.70 ERA (34 earned runs in 82.2 innings), and 105 strikeouts across 74 games.
- In 2024, he led all D-backs relievers in innings pitched and strikeouts while ranking second in saves.
This extension underscores the team’s confidence in Martinez as a cornerstone of their bullpen for years to come. With his blistering fastball and proven ability to deliver under pressure, the D-backs have locked in one of the most electric young arms in the game.
