Every season, contenders confront the difficult challenge of coping with aging players on large contracts. The Yankees are dealing with Marcus Stroman, and the New York Mets are facing a similar situation with Starling Marte.
A Shadow of His Prime.
Marte was once a powerful force with blazing speed, strong defence, and a dependable bat. But Father Time is undefeated, and at 36, he’s no longer the exciting player he once was. While he still adds value, expecting him to outrun time is ridiculous. Last season, he hit seven home runs, stole 16 bases, and had a decent 104 wRC+, demonstrating that he can still contribute at the plate, even if his defensive abilities and base-stealing threat have waned.
The Financial Roadblock
The true issue, however, is not simply his deteriorating skills, but also his contract. Marte is expected to make $20.75 million this season before entering free agency. That’s a high price for a player who is no longer at his peak, and transferring him has proven difficult for the Mets’ front office. Even though the organization is apparently willing to eat some of his contract or attach a prospect to sweeten the deal, trade interest remains low.
A few weeks ago, there were indications that a deal was in place with the Kansas City Royals to exchange Marte for reliever Hunter Harvey. However, it did not materialize.
Outfield Logjam
New York’s outfield is already overcrowded. With Juan Soto, Jose Siri, Brandon Nimmo, Tyrone Taylor, and Jesse Winker on the roster, keeping Marte adds six players—a excess on a 26-man roster. Logically, he appears to be the odd man out, but finding a trade partner has proved tough.
According to Pat Ragazzo of SI.com, the Mets are open to selling Marte, but they may be forced to hold him until 2025. Due to a lack of suitors, they may have to accept his presence and hope he can add value in a smaller role.
What is Marte’s role and position on the 2025 Mets? It appears that he will be on the weak side of a DH platoon with lefty-hitting Jesse Winker, but injuries may always change that and give him a bigger role.
At this point, it’s less about what Marte can provide and more about what teams are prepared to accept. Without a deal, the Mets will be forced to make the best of a scenario they hoped to avoid.
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