Russell Martin, who signed a two-year, $17 million deal with the Pirates, defended the decision on Tuesday.

"Pittsburgh had, hands-down, the best deal available," Martin said. "It was hard to decline that or to be patient (for another offer) when that was available."

Martin spent the last two seasons with the Yankees. He didn't seem to want to leave New York.

"It's the business side of it, and I've got no problem with it," he said. "Would I have enjoyed to play with the Yankees? Of course. Who wouldn't? It's a great environment to play in, a winning environment. But I didn't get that opportunity, so I'm going to do my best with the opportunity I do have now."