JOOLA Signs MLB All-Star J.D. Martinez

The six-time MLB All-Star and World Series champ has spent 14 seasons dialing in one of the cleanest swings in baseball.

But now, he’s setting his sights on a different court.

Martinez has officially signed with JOOLA as he prepares to transition into professional pickleball once his baseball career wraps up.

And if there’s anything we’ve learned from watching pro athletes switch sports, it’s that competitive fire doesn’t fade—it just finds a new outlet.

Martinez didn’t stumble into pickleball by accident.

The longtime table tennis fan got his first taste of the sport when a neighbor invited him to play. That was all it took.

His competitive instincts kicked in, and next thing you know, he built a pickleball court at his house to fully dive into the game.

Under this new partnership, JOOLA is providing full support—coaching, equipment, and even tournament opportunities.

Martinez has already started training under JOOLA pro Eric White, who sees serious potential in the slugger’s game.

Martinez won’t just be hitting around in his backyard—he’s planning to compete in pro events like the PPA Challenger Series and even host his own tournaments.

He’s also no stranger to high-profile pickleball circles. Last year, Martinez joined The Fort, a top-tier pickleball facility in Fort Lauderdale and will be home to the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium.

He still has unfinished business in baseball, but when the time comes, he’ll be stepping onto the pickleball court with serious backing and big ambitions.