Mets Bring on J.D. Martinez as Special Assistant

Former All-Star joins front office to share expertise with players

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Mets have added longtime MLB outfielder J.D. Martinez to their front office as a special assistant, the team announced on Tuesday. Martinez, who last played for the Mets in 2024, will work closely with the organization's players and staff to share his extensive baseball knowledge and experience.

Why it matters

Martinez's addition to the Mets' front office brings valuable veteran leadership and expertise to the team. As a six-time All-Star who won a World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2018, Martinez can provide mentorship to the Mets' players and help the organization continue its recent success.

The details

In his new role, Martinez will spend time both in the front office learning the organization's processes as well as in the clubhouse working directly with players, particularly the team's hitters and pitchers. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza praised Martinez's consistent play, high baseball IQ, and positive influence on the 2024 team that reached the NLCS.

  • The Mets first discussed a potential front office role with Martinez back in 2024, when he played for them.
  • Martinez did not play in 2025 and picked up the conversation with the Mets last winter.
  • Martinez's 120 games with the 2024 Mets were his last in the major leagues.

The players

J.D. Martinez

A 14-year MLB veteran who made six All-Star teams and finished as high as fourth in MVP voting, most notably for the 2018 World Series champion Boston Red Sox.

Carlos Mendoza

The current manager of the New York Mets.

Carlos Beltrán

A former MLB player who also serves as a special assistant in the Mets' front office.

David Stearns

The Mets' front office executive to whom Martinez will report in his new role.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Everybody saw what he meant to the team in 2024, not only on the field but off the field. Super consistent, very knowledgeable and very positive. He's a guy who's won the World Series and been in the playoffs. Overall, it's a huge addition.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“(It's) not only with the position players but with the pitchers. There's so much value to having pitchers talk to a Hall of Famer like Carlos Beltrán and now J.D. Martinez with their minds and everything they bring to the table.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets expect Martinez to begin his new role immediately, working closely with the team's players and staff throughout the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Martinez's addition to the Mets' front office represents a savvy move to bring in a respected veteran voice who can help mentor the team's players and continue the organization's recent success. His expertise and leadership are expected to have a positive impact both on and off the field.