Cubs Have Reportedly Non-Tendered DH José Martinez

In one of the least surprising moves of the day, the Cubs have reportedly non-tendered José Martinez. The 32-year-old came over from the Rays just ahead of the deadline in exchange for 19-year-old infield prospect Pedro Martinez and cash, but the move ended up failing miserably.

Clubs starting to inform players. Per source: Cubs Jose Martinez has been non tendered. Came over from TB midseason but struggled. He's a FA.

— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) December 2, 2020

Brought in to mash lefties, Martinez went hitless with one walk and seven strikeouts over 22 plate appearances for the Cubs. That was good for a -91 wRC+ and a trip to South Bend for two weeks in the middle of September. Adding insult to injury is the fact that his departure from Tampa opened the door for Randy Arozarena to get more playing time there.

Martinez is in his second year of arbitration eligibility following the expiration of a two-year, $3.25 million deal he signed with the Cardinals in 2019. He won’t command much on the open market, but even a discounted rate is more than the Cubs were willing to offer.