J.D Martinez Returns to Mets as Special Advisor

On Tuesday, the Mets reunited with a familiar face to bolster their front office. J.D. Martinez, a vital catalyst in the Mets’ 2024 turnaround, has been hired as a Special Advisor to Baseball Operations. Tim Healey, who first broke the story, noted that the role is expected to mirror the one currently held by Carlos Beltrán.

Martinez joins the executive ranks with a playing resume that commands immediate respect:

1. An .863 career OPS and a 131 OPS+ over 14 seasons.
2. 331 career home runs.
3. Six-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger.
4. A key contributor to the 2018 World Series Champion Boston Red Sox.

Widely regarded as a “hitting guru” in the same vein as Michael Brantley and Miguel Cabrera, Martinez was a late bloomer who mastered the mechanics of the swing. Though he spent the early part of his retirement exploring a potential career in professional pickleball, his heart clearly remains on the diamond.

The move comes at a pivotal time for the organization. Following the “Grimace-fueled” magic of 2024, where Martinez hit 16 home runs and was a resource for young Mets hitters across the season, the 2025 Mets failed to sustain that momentum. Despite the blockbuster addition of Juan Soto, pundits have pointed to a void in leadership and chemistry as a reason for the team’s recent struggles.

The 2024 clubhouse was defined by the veteran presence of Martinez and Jose Iglesias. Neither returned for the 2025 campaign, leaving a noticeable gap in the team’s internal support structure. By bringing Martinez back into the fold, the Mets hope to provide their roster with an elite sounding board for the craft of hitting. No details exactly on what the role will entail, but we’ll see it play out over the next couple of seasons.

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