After a prolonged offseason wait, former Dodgers designated hitter J.D. Martinez has finally secured a contract for the 2024 season, joining the New York Mets on a one-year, $12 million deal.

However, the agreement comes with significant deferred payments, with Martinez set to receive only $4.5 million for the upcoming season, with the remainder spread out as $1.5 million annually from 2034 to 2038.

Despite the heavily backloaded structure, the deal represents a coup for the Mets and likely wasn’t the scenario Martinez anticipated when the winter began. Following a standout season with the Dodgers, where he posted impressive stats of .271 batting average, 33 home runs, and 103 RBIs in just 113 games, Martinez sought a multi-year contract.

Reportedly, Martinez turned down a more lucrative offer from the San Francisco Giants, valued at one year and $15 million. His primary reason for declining the Giants’ offer was the hitter-unfriendly nature of Oracle Park, echoing sentiments expressed by other players this offseason, including Shohei Ohtani.

While the Dodgers are relieved Martinez didn’t choose the Giants, recognizing his potential to bolster their lineup, his move to New York strengthens the Mets. Martinez’s impact on the Dodgers was significant, contributing to their historic offense and shining during the postseason. While his absence will be felt in the Dodgers’ lineup, the addition of Ohtani should mitigate any major drop-off in offensive production.