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JD Martinez and the New York Mets have been rolling as of late. After a rocky start to the season, they have turned it around, sitting just eight games out of first place in the National League East.
Many players have stepped up this season, but Martinez has been huge for the team's success this year. Through 78 games, he is hitting .265/.347/.446 with 11 home runs and 47 runs batted in.
The success caught the eye of former manager Terry Collins. He sat down with Carlos Mendoza to talk about the slugger's successful 2024 season.
"We didn't see him at all in Spring Training, we signed him late. When we broke camp, we didn't see him till late April , second week of May, I can't even remember, it seems so long ago. But, once he came on-board, it's been great. Excited to have him and he's a dangerous hitter in the middle of our lineup," said Mendoza.
While Martinez joined the team late, he has been nothing but great for the club. However, it is not just what he does at the plate that has helped the Mets; he has turned into a leader in the clubhouse.
"In just holding people accountable, not only in the game, but the way they prepare. Like the preparation, going over scouting reports, and how we are going to attack different pitchers," said Mendoza.
Mendoza reveals Martinez has been a guy to hold players accountable both at the plate and how they approach the game. Not only did they sign a powerful bat, but they also signed somebody who can keep this group level-headed throughout a long season.
JD Martinez and the Mets have a great opportunity to close the gap in the division this month
JD Martinez and the Mets must take advantage of their August schedule. They have a few series against some underwhelming teams that could help them move up the division.
New York has a series against the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Angels, Colorado Rockies, and Miami Marlins this month. There is no reason the club should drop any of these series.
A good month could put them much closer to the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies. Sitting just a handful of games back, do not be surprised if the Mets continue their hot streak through the second half.
