Scott Boras' comments cast doubt on Nick Martinez's future with the Reds

The Cincinnati Reds would love to have Nick Martinez back in the fold next season. The team extended a qualifying offer to Martinez, which would pay him $21 million in 2025 if he accepts. But his agent's comments don't necessarily paint a picture of a rosy reunion between Martinez and the Reds.

Martinez is represented by MLB mega-agent Scott Boras. As he does this time of year, Boras entertained questions from the media during this week's GM Meetings in San Antonio, Texas. When asked about Martinez, Boras shared some information that Reds fans won't want to hear.

Speaking to C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic (subscription required), Boras said that Martinez has already received multiyear offers from teams. Boras wouldn't get into the details, and failed to mention if the Reds were one of those teams, but if Martinez truly has an abundance of offers beyond just one year, it's quite likely that he declines the qualifying offer and enters free agency.

Scott Boras' comments cast doubt on Nick Martinez's future with the Reds

Martinez has until November 19th to decide whether to accept or decline the qualifying offer. Should Martinez decide to reject it, the Reds will receive draft compensation as a result. Martinez's new team would then lose a draft pick upon signing him, which is a rather hefty price for a 34-year-old swingman who's best years may be behind him.

Even if Martinez declines the qualifying offer, Cincinnati could still attempt to negotiate a long-term deal with him. After watching Michael Wacha sign a three-year, $51 million contract with the Kansas City Royals, it's understandable that Martinez is seeking a multiyear contract this offseason.

If Martinez tests free agency this winter, the Reds will need to formulate a new plan. Cincinnati's rotation is solid, but the club still needs at least one veteran arm to help fill out the pitching staff. Hunter Greene looked like a bonafide ace in 2024, and Rhett Lowder flashed potential during his brief time in the bigs. Both Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo look like solid rotation pieces as well, but health is a concern after both lefties ended last season on the injured list.

Boras is likely pitting the Reds against the other teams who are currently negotiating with Martinez while trying to get the best deal for his client. Martinez has mentioned the desire to win as one of his primary motivations going forward, and with Terry Francona now leading the way in Cincinnati, there's reason to believe the Reds can be a contender in 2025.

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