"As far as my playing time and the role I had, it was great. I loved it," Martinez said. "I wish I'd have played a little better down the stretch, but I loved coming off the bench, starting a couple of times a week. I didn't know if I'd like it or not, but I did. I got used to it and enjoyed it."

Should the Yankees pick up Martinez's option, he would look forward to another year in the Bronx. But if the Yanks decide to go in another direction, Martinez may decide to retire, putting an end to his 16-year career.

"I loved the role I had, and I'm not saying I wouldn't take that again," he said. "This is where I want to be if I can be anywhere at all. But if they want to try to get younger players, I'd understand that as well."