The search for a catcher took a bit of a surprising turn for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday when they acquired Russell Martin from the Toronto Blue Jays. The Dodgers also received cash considerations in the deal that saw Minor Leaguers Ronny Brito and Andrew Sopko head to Toronto.
Prior to the trade, the Dodgers had been linked to Yan Gomes and J.T. Realmuto, among other catchers, this winter. Gomes was eliminated as a possibility when the Cleveland Indians traded him to the Washington Nationals, and the Miami Marlins continue to ask for Cody Bellinger in a deal for Realmuto.
With the Dodgers pivoting, it reunites them with a former draft pick of the organization’s. Martin expressed his gratitude for the Blue Jays and their fans, and also shared some excitement over returning to the Dodgers:
— Russell Martin (@russellmartin55) January 11, 2019
After being taken by the Dodgers in the 17th round of the 2002 Draft, Martin made his MLB debut with team in 2006. He appeared in 667 games over five seasons with the Dodgers, batting .272/.365/.396 with 115 doubles, 54 home runs and 300 RBI.
Martin was an All-Star in 2007 and 2008, and helped the Dodgers reach the postseason three times during his five seasons in Los Angeles. He’s entering the final year of a five-year, $82 million contract signed with the Blue Jays.
