There isn't a sport that features as much roster movement as baseball. Whether they're looking to promote a top prospect through their system or designate a struggling veteran for assignment, MLB clubs are constantly tinkering with their roster, and the sheer amount of transactions can be tough to follow for the average fan.
With the nature of baseball's roster moves, the Philadelphia Phillies have seen a plethora of players come and go throughout their existence. While some of those names have gone on to leave an unforgettable impact, others have been forgotten in the sands of time — including an ex-Phillies outfielder who was just kicked to the curb before the weekend.
Former Phillies OF Nick Martini DFA'd by Rockies Before June
On Friday afternoon, CBS Sports reported that the Colorado Rockies — the worst team in the Majors — have designated former Phillies OF Nick Martini for assignment. The Rockies then selected minor-league outfielder Sam Hilliard's contract in a follow-up move.
Any Phillies fans who are forgetting Martini's time in the City of Brotherly Love likely aren't the only ones.
The 34-year-old's time in Philadelphia was brief, having been claimed off waivers by the Phillies in January 2020, only to be DFA'd by the club just over a month later. He was brought back as a spring training invitee but didn't suit up at all due to the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the minor-league season to be canceled.
Since leaving the Phillies organization, Martini spent a season with the Chicago Cubs before heading over to play for South Korea's NC Dinos in 2022. He followed that up with two years on the Cincinnati Reds' roster before signing a minor-league deal with the Rockies this past winter.
Much to his dismay, Martini's time in the Mile High City was forgettable. The Crystal Lake, IL native is only slashing .225/.288/.294 with one home runs, four RBIs, and 18 strikeouts in 43 games (102 at-bats). Considering how he'll be 35 years old before June is over, it's hard to imagine a turnaround at this stage of his career.
At the end of the day, being DFA'd by the worst team in baseball is a bad look for anyone. Unless a club is confident Martini has something left in the tank, there's a decent chance he's already played his last MLB game.