Texas Rangers: Nick Martinez signs with Nippon Ham Fighters

After struggling in 2017 with the Texas Rangers, Nick Martinez has signed a one year deal with the Nippon Ham Fighters.

There was a time when it seemed as though Nick Martinez would be a solid option in the Texas Rangers starting rotation. He posted a 7-7 record, along with a respectable 3.96 ERA, in 2015, although his upside was limited by his 1.448 WHiP and low strikeout totals. However, he still appeared to be a cost effective option in the back of the Rangers rotation.

Then, reality set in. Those limited strikeouts, as well as his tendency to get hit, led to an ugly past two seasons. In his 150 major league innings between 2016 and 2017, Martinez posted a 5-11 record, with a 5.64 ERA and a 1.440 WHiP. In those 150 innings, Martinez struck out 83 batters, as he just could not get himself out of trouble. However, he performed well in AAA last year, with a 4-0 record, along with a 2.15 ERA and a 0.905 WHiP in 37.2 innings.

Determined to become something more than a Quad-A pitcher, Martinez is making a move. A month after being released by the Rangers, the free agent starter has signed with the Nippon Ham Fighters, a one year deal worth $1.8 million.

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While several players have headed overseas to rebuild their value in recent years, this was not the only option available to Martinez. He claims to have had several major league opportunities present themselves, but turned those offers down to head over to Nippon Ham.

This may end up being a move that works out in the long term. He is going to earn close to what he had been projected to make in arbitration, while heading to an environment where he could work on improving his repertoire. Should Martinez find success overseas, he may well be able to earn a much better contract as a free agent next year.

Next: Rangers eyeing Lorenzo Cain

Nick Martinez was not able to repeat his success from 2015 with the Texas Rangers. A move to Japan for the 2018 campaign may be what he needs to take that next step.