J.D. Martinez. (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
BOSTON (WBZ-AM) -- You may find this hard to believe since new Red Sox slugger J.D. Martinez just finalized a five-year, $110 million contract following a 45-homer, 104-RBI season, but the seven-year big leaguer was actually released by the Astros just before the 2014 season.
Two days later, Martinez signed with the Tigers and responded with a .315 average, 23 home runs, and 76 ribbies.
But would J.D. have ever imagined four years ago he'd be in this spot?
"You know, me and my parents were actually talking about that on the way over here," he said. "Who would have thought? It's a blessing, I gotta thank God for it, and I thank Him every day for it. I wouldn't have thought that four years ago."
David Price's Advice To J.D. Martinez On How To Enjoy Boston
Martinez will have three chances to opt out of his deal, after the second, third, and fourth years of the contract.
Sox also have medical protection against his foot the last two years of the deal.
Hear more from Martinez below.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Adam Kaufman reports