Mets’ Starling Marte Sidelined with Lingering Knee Issues, Future with Team Uncertain
New York Mets outfielder Starling Marte was expected to use spring training as a showcase for potential trade suitors. However, persistent soreness in his right knee has kept the two-time All-Star off the field. Marte, who missed two months last season due to the same issue, struggled upon his return, hitting just .244 with no home runs in 28 games.
Speaking to reporters earlier this week, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza admitted there’s no clear timeline for Marte’s return. However, the veteran outfielder is expected to take batting practice on a back field in March. “Some days are good, some aren’t,” Mendoza told the New York Post, emphasizing the challenge of finding the right balance between pushing forward and scaling back. While Marte continues baseball activities, his running progression remains a concern.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his health, Mendoza remains optimistic, calling Marte an “impact player” for the team. However, Marte himself previously acknowledged that the Mets had discussed the possibility of trading him this past offseason. With nearly $21 million owed to him in the final year of his four-year contract, Marte has not publicly requested a trade and has expressed willingness to accept a bench role.
Injuries have taken a toll on the veteran, limiting him to a .258 average over the past two seasons. However, he showed flashes of his former self during the Mets’ postseason run, batting .277 with nine RBI.
With the trade deadline approaching in July, teams in need of an offensive boost could monitor Marte’s status. The New York Yankees, in particular, might be a potential suitor, given that designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton is dealing with tennis elbow in both arms and recently left camp for personal reasons.
In the meantime, the Mets must prepare for the possibility of playing without Marte. This could open the door for former Chicago Cubs outfielder Alexander Canario to earn a spot on the Opening Day roster.
