Poll: Should the White Sox sign Victor Martinez; lose draft pick?
By Brian Draus
Oct 5, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers designated hitter Victor Martinez (41) at bat against the Baltimore Orioles during game three of the 2014 ALDS baseball playoff game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Here is the big question of the offseason for the Chicago White Sox … Should the Sox sign an impact bat such as designated hitter Victor Martinez?
Here are some pros and cons (along with a poll) of signing a player like Martinez this offseason.
PROS
1. Protection for Jose Abreu
Martinez is one of the best run producers in all of baseball, and could be good protection behind Abreu. He drives in runs without hitting the long ball, and can hit from both sides of the plate.
2. His game ages well
While former designated hitter Adam Dunn was a barrel-chested slugger, Martinez is more of a contact oriented run producer. Martinez will be 36 this December, and due to his game and body could be able to hit well for the next few years
3. Could be the DH
The White Sox need a DH, that is no secret. They need the DH due to the fact that there is a hole at that position after trading Dunn to the Oakland Athletics before the trade deadline, and Paul Konerko’s retirement at the end of the ’14 season. Martinez could fill the void as that is where he played mostly with the Detroit Tigers, not to mention play a little bit of first base. Keep in mind that the Sox do not have anyone ready in their minor league system that can DH.
4. Has the ability to hit LH
The White Sox need a left-handed bat in the middle of their lineup, and Martinez could do that. While he is a switch hitter, he could still face righties from the left side.