Nick Martinez Hits Free Agency After All-Star Season With Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays declined the $20M mutual option for right-hander Nick Martinez, instead paying him a $4M buyout. Martinez delivered a stellar All-Star campaign in 2026, compiling a 3.10 ERA, 3.96 FIP, and a league-leading 3.8 BB% over a career-high 180 innings. Beyond anchoring the rotation and starting Game 1 of the World Series, his clubhouse leadership was invaluable in guiding a young Rays team to their first postseason berth since 2023.