Rays Sign Veteran Pitcher Nick Martinez to $13M Deal

The Tampa Bay Rays add free agent Nick Martinez to their pitching rotation on a multi-year contract.

Feb. 9, 2026 at 11:47am

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The Tampa Bay Rays have signed free agent pitcher Nick Martinez to a $13 million contract, bringing the 35-year-old right-hander back to the American League for the first time since 2017. Martinez posted a 4.45 ERA in 40 games with the Cincinnati Reds last season, but the Rays believe their pitching development system can help him regain his previous form.

Why it matters

The Rays are known for their ability to develop and extract value from veteran pitchers, so this signing signals their confidence in Martinez's potential despite his recent struggles. As a small-market team, the Rays don't often make such a significant financial commitment in free agency, underscoring their belief that Martinez can contribute to their playoff aspirations.

The details

Martinez, a right-handed pitcher, has agreed to a $13 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. He spent the 2022 season with the Cincinnati Reds, posting a 4.45 ERA in 40 games. The Rays are known for their strong pitching development program and believe they can help Martinez regain his previous form.

  • The deal was announced on February 9, 2026, just ahead of the start of Spring Training.

The players

Nick Martinez

A 35-year-old right-handed pitcher who has agreed to a $13 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Tampa Bay Rays

A Major League Baseball team known for their ability to develop and extract value from veteran pitchers, even on a limited budget.

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What they’re saying

“The Rays are not satisfied with their roster and the wheels keep turning in St. Petersburg.”

— Mark Feinsand, MLB.com reporter (MLB.com)

What’s next

The Rays will look to integrate Martinez into their pitching rotation during Spring Training as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 MLB season.

The takeaway

This signing demonstrates the Rays' commitment to continuously improving their roster and their confidence in their ability to develop pitchers, even those with recent struggles, into valuable contributors to their playoff-contending team.