Home / Sports / Veteran Slugger J.D. Martinez Could Boost Royals' Playoff Push
Veteran Slugger J.D. Martinez Could Boost Royals' Playoff Push
1 Aug
Summary
- Royals acquired new bats at trade deadline, but lack power
- Veteran slugger J.D. Martinez remains unsigned, could provide needed boost
- Martinez hit 33 homers in 2023, but struggled in 2024 with Mets
As of August 1st, 2025, the Kansas City Royals find themselves in the thick of the Wild Card race, but their offense has been a major issue. In a surprising move at the trade deadline last month, the Royals acquired new bats like Stephen Kolek and Randal Grichuk, rather than selling off players. However, these additions have yet to provide the power the team desperately needs to pull themselves out of their funk and secure a playoff spot.
Interestingly, one potential solution to the Royals' offensive woes may still be available on the free agent market. Veteran slugger J.D. Martinez, who spent the 2024 season with the New York Mets, has not yet announced his retirement. The 37-year-old hit 33 home runs in 2023 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, posting an impressive .893 OPS and driving in 103 runs. While his numbers dipped in 2024, there is still life in Martinez's bat, and he could be the missing power source the Royals need to make a late-season push.
With two months left in the season, the Royals will certainly be keeping a close eye on Martinez's situation. If he remains unsigned, the team may decide to take a chance on the veteran, hoping he can provide the offensive boost they so desperately require.
