George Sipple

Detroit Free Press

Outfielder J.D. Martinez said he’s still hopeful and interested in signing a long-term deal with the Detroit Tigers.

He is eligible for arbitration, and the sides are $2 million apart in their salary proposals for 2016.

Martinez was among the players who spoke to the media this morning, before the Tigers departed on buses to different areas of the state as part of the team’s annual winter caravan.

“We haven’t come to something where we both feel comfortable on yet,” Martinez said. “I love this team. I want to be part of this team. I would love to be a Tiger for life. We’ll see how it goes.”

According to a source, Martinez filed for a salary of $8 million, and the Tigers for $6 million. Martinez, 28, is predicted by mlbtraderumors.com to earn $7.8 million in arbitration.

“There’s no animosity, no feelings like that,” Martinez said. “This team gave me an opportunity, and I would love to stay here as long as I can -- hopefully, finish my career next to Miggy.”

Led by Miguel Cabrera, the Tigers should have an explosive lineup next season, including Ian Kinsler, a healthy Victor Martinez and new leftfielder Justin Upton.

After a breakout season in 2014, J.D. Martinez hit .282 with 38 home runs and 102 RBIs last season. He was an American League All-Star, a finalist for the Gold Glove in rightfield and won a Silver Slugger Award.

On Wednesday, the Tigers introduced Justin Upton, who agreed to a six-year, $132.75-million contract. General manager Al Avila said owner Mike Ilitch was worried about the offense and wanted him to pursue another big bat.

Asked about Upton’s deal, Martinez said: “I think it’s great for us. I was excited about it. I was like, ‘This is awesome. Got another bat in the lineup.’ It just makes our team that much better. Everybody knows what he can do. I’ve been a fan of his for a while. I think he’s a great ballplayer, so I’m really excited to have him here.”

Martinez said he’s not sure what will happen next in the negotiation process with the Tigers.

“This is my first go-around for this, so I really don’t know,” he said. “I’m just taking it day-to-day. My job is to just worry about getting ready for the season, and that’s all I do.”

He wants to get a long-term deal done before the start of the season.

“Once the season starts, let’s focus on the season,” Martinez said. “Let’s worry about winning a championship here, getting Mr. Ilitch what he really wants.”