Detroit Tigers: Eyebrow-Raising Player Transactions #30-21

Sep 23, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers designated hitter

Victor Martinez

(41) at bat against the Chicago White Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

24. Victor Martinez. A Contract for What Was. 

Victor Martinez has established himself as one of the leaders of the team and in 2014, he established himself as one of the best hitters in baseball. At the end of the 2014 season, when Martinez achieved an oWAR of 5.8 with his league-leading 28 intentional base-on-balls, .409 OBP, and .974 OPS, he was a free agent. Instead of another team grabbing this gem of a player, the Tigers resigned him with a monstrous contract. In 2015, Martinez was awarded $14 million and for the next three years, the Tigers will pay him $18 million annually.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, Martinez reinjured his knee prior to 2015 spring training. In 2016, Martinez will be 37 years old. Even before the reinjury, he could barely run the bases. Who knows what shape Martinez will be in for the upcoming season? All the fans and other players know is that he will be getting that $18 million whether he swings another bat or not.

Next: #23 Dombrowski's Worst Deal. EVER.