Free Agency: Rays Predicted to Lose Nick Martinez to NL West Team, Unsurprisingly

Rays look toward next season

After reaching the World Series, Tampa Bay will be considering how to contend again. The article says the roster could look much like last season’s group, while new ownership and a stadium deal expected in a couple of years point to a bright future.

Junior Caminero has emerged as a young star and gives the Rays a central figure in their lineup. The rotation, however, could need attention, with two key pitchers set to become free agents after the 2026 campaign.

Martinez forecast to join Giants

Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report predicted that Nick Martinez will sign with the San Francisco Giants. Kelly’s forecast is a two-year contract worth $36 million. The Rays and Martinez had a mutual option, but the article says his move into free agency was not a major surprise. At 36, he is coming off one of the strongest seasons of his career.

Strong season raises stakes

Martinez finished the season with a 15-6 record and a 3.10 ERA. Though he has shifted between starting and relief roles during his career, the article credits Tampa Bay with helping him reach his potential this year.

The article says a deal of this size would be surprising for the Rays, but losing Martinez would make rotation reinforcements important. It also identifies Peralta as another contributor to the World Series run, without specifying his role or status.

Replacing production will be difficult

The article says replacing the production of Martinez and Peralta would be a challenge. It also points to Tampa Bay’s history of getting strong results from its pitchers, including in 2026. The Rays will be looking to maintain that record as they work to remain competitive in the American League.