Veteran outfielder Starling Marte is one of the players in the focus of trade talks as the Mets look to restructure their team in preparation for the 2025 campaign. The Kansas City Royals and the Mets have discussed trading Marte for right-handed reliever Hunter Harvey, according to Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated.
“Sources told Mets On SI that during the December Winter Meetings in Dallas, the Mets discussed trading Marte to the Kansas City Royals in exchange for right-handed relief pitcher Hunter Harvey.”
The Falling Production of Marte
The 36-year-old Marte just had a difficult 2024 season that was ruined by injury and inconsistent play. In 109 games, he hit just seven home runs and drove in 40 runs while slashing.269/.327/.388. He increased his strikeout percentage to 21.9%, but his power
appeared to completely vanish with an isolated power of.119. Marte still contributes speed and defensive flexibility in spite of his difficulties; he covers ground in the outfield and swipes 16 bases.
However, Marte is owed $19 million in the last year of his deal, and the Mets appear prepared to let him go. He is now more of a problem than an asset due to his deteriorating offensive numbers and recent health issues, thus New York is looking at ways to cut his contract while maybe improving their bullpen.
The addition of Hunter Harvey to the bullpen
The Mets’ objectives have significantly changed with the possible return of Marte, right-handed reliever Hunter Harvey. The 30-year-old Harvey just had a disappointing season with the Nationals and Royals, with a 4.44 ERA over 60 innings with a strikeout-per-nine rate of 9.77. His fastball of 97 mph and efficient
His ability to manage high-leverage situations and his curveball make him a dependable late-inning alternative. His presence would bolster a Mets bullpen that had trouble staying consistent in 2024.
Marte may provide the Royals both an offensive comeback and a seasoned presence. If healthy, Marte may provide Kansas City’s lineup a much-needed lift and a steadying influence as they don’t exactly have a lot of outfield depth.
Looking to Clear Salary, Mets
In addition to acquiring Harvey, the Mets traded Marte in order to remove the $19 million that was owing to Marte from their books. New York has been outspoken about wanting to maintain financial flexibility, particularly following a disastrous 2024 season in which they failed to live up to expectations. Marte’s departure would make room for further arrivals, maybe filling other roster gaps or strengthening their bullpen even more.
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