The New York Mets are grappling with an outfield conundrum that could soon see a resolution. With six outfielders on their 26-man roster, the team is in desperate need of a utility infielder. This need is especially urgent with Nick Madrigal out for the season due to a shoulder injury.
One potential solution lies in trading Starling Marte to the Kansas City Royals. A deal has been in the works, but it stalled due to high asking prices. Recent reports suggest that the Royals have not completely ruled out the possibility of acquiring Marte.
The Mets’ Outfield Dilemma
The Mets currently have six outfielders on their 26-man roster, which is causing a significant imbalance. This overload in the outfield means there is no room for a much-needed utility infielder. Starling Marte, who has been a valuable presence in the clubhouse, is one of these outfielders. However, his presence is also depriving the roster of flexibility, especially in the infield.
Starling Marte’s Potential Move
Starling Marte could be on the move soon if the Mets can negotiate a deal with the Kansas City Royals. The Royals had previously expressed interest in Marte but balked at the Mets’ asking price, which included relievers Hunter Harvey or Angel Zerpa. According to Joel Sherman of The New York Post, the Royals have not completely extinguished this possibility, indicating that negotiations could resume.
Why the Mets Need a Utility Infielder
With infielder Nick Madrigal out for the season due to a shoulder injury, the Mets are left without a bench player who can competently play shortstop. Third baseman Brett Baty is expected to begin taking reps at shortstop, but it remains to be seen if he can handle the position. The Mets could also consider starting the season with Luisangel Acuña, who can play second base, shortstop, and outfield. However, they would likely prefer him to continue getting regular playing time in the minors.
The Financial Aspect
Starling Marte is owed $20.75 million on his contract and will be a free agent at the end of the season. His time with the Mets has been plagued by injuries, limiting him to 298 games over three seasons. During this time, he has batted .272 with a .731 OPS.
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Trading Marte would not only free up a significant amount of salary cap space but also provide the Mets with the opportunity to acquire a much-needed utility infielder.
Marte’s Performance and Injury History
Marte’s tenure with the Mets has been less than stellar due to various injuries. Despite his willingness to take a diminished role to stay on the team, his performance on the field has not lived up to expectations. In three seasons, he has managed to play in 298 games, batting .272 with a .731 OPS. These numbers, while respectable, are not enough to justify his current salary, especially given his injury history.
Potential Replacements and Roster Adjustments
If the Mets can successfully trade Marte, they will need to make some roster adjustments. Brett Baty is expected to take reps at shortstop, but his ability to play the position is still in question. Luisangel Acuña is another option, but the team would likely prefer him to continue developing in the minors. The Mets could also explore other trade options or free-agent signings to fill the utility infielder role.
The Royals’ Perspective
The Kansas City Royals have shown interest in Marte but were initially put off by the Mets’ high asking price. However, the Royals have not completely ruled out the possibility of acquiring Marte. If they can find common ground with the Mets, this trade could benefit both teams.
The Royals would acquire a seasoned outfielder, while the Mets would fill their infield gap and free up salary cap space.
Royals’ Needs and Potential Benefits
The Royals are a team on the rise and acquiring a player like Marte could significantly boost their roster. Marte’s experience and skills would be a valuable addition to their outfield. Despite his injury history, Marte has shown that he can still be a productive player when healthy.
The Royals would need to weigh the risks and benefits of acquiring him, but the potential upside could be worth it.
Negotiation Points and Possible Outcomes
Negotiations between the Mets and Royals will likely focus on finding a compromise on the asking price. The Mets initially sought relievers Hunter Harvey or Angel Zerpa, but the Royals balked at this demand. Both teams will need to find common ground to make this trade happen. If successful, the Mets could acquire a utility infielder or other valuable assets, while the Royals would bolster their outfield with a seasoned player.
Conclusion
The New York Mets are in a challenging position with their current roster imbalance.
Trading Starling Marte to the Kansas City Royals could be the solution they need.
While negotiations have stalled due to high asking prices, recent reports suggest that the Royals have not completely ruled out the possibility of acquiring Marte.
This trade could significantly benefit both teams. It would allow the Mets to fill their infield gap and the Royals to strengthen their outfield.
For more details on this developing story, you can read the full article on NJ.com.
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