The New York Mets made a late-offseason splash when they signed J.D. Martinez to be their designated hitter in 2024.

The contract was for $12 million in total. Martinez will get $4.5 million this season with $7.5 million deferred a decade into the future. The market for Martinez came down enough to where the Mets felt like it was a beneficial move.

Now, the question remains, does this move make the Mets a playoff team this season?

There have been low expectations around the Mets all offseason. This is because of how last season ended. It is difficult sometimes to look at one year without bringing in the next. Like last year, the Mets had high hopes but realistically did not make any additions outside of Justin Verlander to make the team better.

This year, the Mets have a chance to bounce back.

It begins with Jeff McNeil and Starling Marte. If these two bats can get back to normal and not play below-average ball, this is a huge boost. This is one of many ‘ifs’ for this Mets’ team.

Brandon Nimmo and Francisco Lindor are a strong duo at the top of the lineup, followed by Pete Alonso and his powerful bat. Throw Martinez into the mix and this is an extremely intriguing top four. Francisco Alvarez is also expected to take another step toward becoming a 25 home-run bat.

The issue with the Mets remains its pitching rotation. As of now, there is just one pitcher, Kodai Senga, who is locked in for 2025. The Mets added many no-risk deals this season with great upside. The question is, will this work?

New York took a chance on Luis Severino and hopes he can turn into what he once was. Sean Manaea is on a two-year deal. Adrian Houser and Jose Quintana are also in the rotation. At this point, the Mets are looking for average pitching and health.

There has already been a big hit with Senga missing time. If he can return in a decent amount of time, the Mets will benefit. Again, another ‘if’. A strength in 2024 will be the bullpen, which has not been the case over the years.

It seems clear that the Mets have the firepower in the lineup to make a run at a Wild Card spot. they will have to fight many teams for two spots since it seems like the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies will take one. Of course, this goes to whoever does not win the NL East.

New York has a chance to return to the playoffs and this move for Martinez solidified it. This is all fans could hope for this offseason.