3 years agoBoston Red Sox designated hitter J.D. Martinez is will see significant time in right field this season. The Red Sox plan to platoon Jackie Bradley Jr. (against righties) and Martinez (against lefties) in right field. "It helps that J.D. can play the outfield," said Red Sox manager Alex Cora. "It's going to help us. That way, I can give Xander Bogaerts and Rafael Devers a few days DHing against lefties, even Trevor Story. Then Bobby Dalbec will do his thing. The 34-year-old has outfield eligibility after logging 36 games in the outfield in 2021 and should have no problem retaining that eligibility in 2023. Earlier in the offseason, Martinez declined to exercise the opt-out clause in his contract to remain with Boston for the 2022 season. He slashed .286/.349/.518 with a .867 OPS, 28 home runs, 99 RBI, and an MLB-leading 42 doubles. Martinez is expected to hit cleanup for Boston and is being selected as a top-20 outfielder in fantasy for upcoming drafts.--Brad Camara - RotoBaller
Source: Chris Cotillo of Masslive.com