Report: Tigers working to avoid arbitration with J.D. Martinez

The Detroit Tigers are working hard to avoid their first arbitration hearing since 2001.

J.D. Martinez is seeking a big raise following a breakout 2015 campaign, and the club is discussing both one- and two-year deals with the slugger in an attempt to avoid the matter falling into the hands of an arbitrator, according to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi.

Martinez, who is second-year arbitration eligible and under club control through the 2017 season, filed at $8 million and the club countered with a $6-million offer when figures were exchanged. It's unknown exactly when Martinez's arbitration case is scheduled, but Feb. 21 is the final day of hearings.

The 28-year-old hit an impressive .282/.344/.535 with 38 homers and 102 RBIs in 158 contests last season. He's projected to be the club's everyday right fielder this year, and should continue to thrive offensively with the team's newest member Justin Upton providing additional protection in the Tigers' lineup.

Right-hander Chris Holt was the last player to go to arbitration with the club back in 2001.