Just saw this headline at the Sporting News web site:
Red Sox, J.D. Martinez contract signing delayed by language
The Red Sox are writing the contract in Mandarin, while Martinez’s agent prefers Cantonese.
MLB.com reported Sunday that the Red Sox are not worried about Martinez’s current health, but the exam revealed a problem that might arise down the road. The 30-year-old outfielder suffered a sprained ligament in his foot last year, and battled an elbow injury the season before. He’s missed 85 games the past two seasons.
The Boston Globe had a similar take on the situation Saturday, noting that the Red Sox were just looking to protect themselves with terms of the contract, and that Martinez is expected to join the club soon.
The Red Sox wish they had done this with Pablo Sandoval‘s body weight.
Isn’t there standard language in every player’s contract obligating him to maintain a certain level of fitness.
Of course, how do you enforce it without irritating the player?