What’s the deal? Jays reel in Martin with $7M bonus
Austin Martin is set to receive the largest signing bonus the Blue Jays have ever handed out to one of their draft picks, after the versatile infielder agreed to terms on Wednesday afternoon. Sportsnet’s Hazel Mae was the first to report the sides were nearing an agreement, and the pending deal has since been confirmed by the Star. According to Jim Callis of MLB Pipeline, Martin will earn $7,000,825 (U.S.) — the 12th-highest bonus in draft history.
THE MONEY
The recommended slot value for Toronto’s fifth overall pick was $6,180,700. Martin, who had been projected by most experts to be taken second by Baltimore, will receive the second-highest signing bonus of any player selected this year. Spencer Torkelson, who went first to Detroit, received the most at $8,416,300.
THE GAME PLAN
The Jays’ immediate plan for Martin remains unknown. He is a seasoned college infielder with a bat many scouts have called big-league ready. Martin is not currently on the Jays’ 60-man roster for the upcoming season, but he could be added. The Minor League Baseball season was recently cancelled because of the coronavirus.
THE POSITION
Martin was listed as a shortstop when the Jays drafted him out of Vanderbilt, but he also has the ability to play third base and possibly centre field. While most reports suggest he will become a versatile infielder, it’s the bat that caused his stock to rise in recent years. Martin led the NCAA’s Southeastern Conference in average (.392), hits per game (1.62), on-base percentage (.486) and runs (87). He debuted at No. 16 in Baseball America’s MLB prospect rankings.
FIVE FOR FIVE
The Jays also agreed to terms with their fourth-round pick. College right-hander Nick Frasso signed for $459,000, which means the club has reached agreements with all five picks. Per Callis, the Jays spent exactly five per cent more than their bonus pool, which is the maximum without losing future picks.