ANOTHER ARM FOR OCTOBER: Dodgers Bolster Staff With Trade for Cincinnati Pitching Star Nick Martinez!
In a surprising midseason move aimed at strengthening their postseason push, the Los Angeles Dodgers have reportedly acquired veteran right-hander Nick Martinez from the Cincinnati Reds. While neither team has officially confirmed the trade as of Saturday morning, sources close to the situation suggest that the deal is all but finalized and could be announced within days.
Martinez, 34, has quietly become one of the most dependable and versatile arms in Major League Baseball over the past few seasons. After a successful stint overseas in Japan, he returned to MLB and carved out a unique role with the Padres and then the Reds, functioning effectively both as a starter and out of the bullpen. In 2024, he appeared in 42 games for Cincinnati, making 16 starts and delivering a 3.10 ERA over 142⅓ innings. His numbers as a reliever were particularly eye-catching, posting a 1.86 ERA in relief outings.
The Dodgers, who currently lead the NL West, are no strangers to making bold moves ahead of the postseason. Injuries and inconsistency have impacted their pitching staff throughout the first half of the season, prompting the front office to act aggressively. With ace Blake Snell already anchoring the rotation, the addition of Martinez gives manager Dave Roberts added flexibility — he can be a spot starter, a high-leverage long reliever, or even a late-inning option depending on matchups.
“This is exactly the kind of piece you want to have in October,” said one rival executive. “Martinez is calm under pressure, he doesn’t get rattled, and he’s battle-tested.”
The trade details have yet to emerge, but speculation suggests the Dodgers parted with one or two mid-tier prospects and possibly some international bonus pool money. Given that Martinez signed a one-year, $21.05 million qualifying offer with the Reds during the offseason, he was unlikely to be a long-term piece in Cincinnati’s rebuilding plans. This move gives the Reds the opportunity to build for the future while giving Martinez a shot at chasing a ring.
For the Dodgers, it’s not just about depth — it’s about strategic preparation. October baseball demands adaptability, and Martinez offers precisely that. His experience overseas, his ability to pitch multiple innings, and his quiet leadership in the clubhouse make him a valuable addition both on and off the mound.
Dodger fans hoping to see Martinez in Dodger blue may not have to wait long. If the trade is finalized in the next few days, he could be slotted in for his first start — or relief outing — during the upcoming home series against the San Francisco Giants.
Whether or not he’s used in high-leverage playoff situations or as a stabilizing force in the regular season, one thing is certain: the Dodgers are once again thinking ahead. And with a pitcher like Martinez in their corner, their October odds just got a little better.
