MARTIN MOVES BACK TO LA!
The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired catcher Russell Martin and cash from the Toronto Blue Jays for infielder Ronny Brito and pitcher Andrew Sopko.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
Sometimes, you CAN go home again! Martin, who began his MLB career with the Dodgers, is now back to wind down his playing days. Now 35, the veteran receiver has struggled offensively for some time (especially the last 2 seasons in Toronto). He is expected to serve a backup role to either Austin Barnes or uber-prospect Keibert Ruiz in 2019.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays sent a lot of money to the Dodgers in this deal to help pay for what is left on Martin's bloated contract, so Toronto was clearly motivated to move on. The Jays have three younger catchers (Danny Jansen, Reese McGuire and Luke Maile), who all surpassed Martin on the depth chart last season, so they should be fine behind the plate. Of the two prospects added here, Brito has more upside.
Fantasy impact
Martin's days as a formidable fantasy catcher are long gone, so this trade should not change his status going into '19. He is pretty much avoidable at this point. Brito has some keeper appeal, while Sopko is not quite there yet. Jansen's value increases slightly after seeing Martin leave town.
