Nick Martinez Draws Strong Free-Agent Interest After 15-Win Season

Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Nick Martinez is hitting the free-agent market after a stellar 2026 campaign, going 15-6 with a 3.10 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, and 180 innings across 31 starts. The 36-year-old veteran delivered an MLB-best 1.3 walks per nine innings and started Game 1 of the World Series for Tampa Bay. Potential suitors seeking short-term rotation help include the Mets, Cubs, Padres, Reds, White Sox, and a possible return to the Rays on a high-value one-year deal.