Starling Marte became a free agent when his four-year, $78 million contract with the New York Mets expired. The veteran outfielder spent four seasons in Queens, appearing in the 2022 All-Star Game and taking part in the 2024 NLDS.
This offseason, the Mets parted ways with four franchise veterans, so some assumed Marte wouldn’t return. But a report from Sports Illustrated indicates that the Mets have some interest in reuniting with him in a backup role, which would allow him to play in the outfield.
Starling Marte Has Leadership Experience
When Juan Soto joined the Mets last offseason, he formed a valuable friendship with Starling Marte, who lost his spot in the outfield and became the team’s designated hitter. Marte helped Soto ease into his role and become more familiar with the team dynamics.
“He’s literally the leader of this team,” Soto told the New York Post. “I feel like he’s actually the captain of this team. He’s bringing the energy that we need. He’s a guy who has been stepping up every single time, it doesn’t matter what.”
If Marte was able to have an increasingly positive effect on Soto, who hit a career high 43 home runs last season, that might be a sign that his leadership skills are valuable. Even so, he can have an influence on outfield prospect Carson Benge, who’s looking to make his major league debut this upcoming season.
“He’s actually the real deal of the team,” Soto added. “He’s the model of the team. Everybody, when they want to talk and get to know something or have a conversation, they can go to him.”
A Decline in Production
If the Mets are willing to reunite with Starling Marte, that might come in the form of a short-term deal. The front office is no stranger to doing so, giving short-term contracts to every free agent they signed this offseason.
Additionally, Marte’s production has dropped as he heads into his age-37 season. Last season, he hit nine home runs, 34 RBI and 14 doubles in 293 at-bats. He has also dealt with a nagging knee injury that sent him to the injured list on multiple occasions in the past two years.
Marte won’t necessarily be on the team due to his talent, but more because of his leadership skills and familiarity with the team. Even though the Mets will look much different this season, they can still look forward to a familiar face potentially the team.
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