The New York Mets received a significant boost on Sunday, activating veteran outfielder Starling Marte from the injured list. Marte, who had been sidelined for nearly two months due to a bone bruise in his right knee, is slated to bat fifth and play right field in his return to the lineup. His presence is eagerly anticipated by the Mets as they make a critical push in the late stages of the season.
Marte's Comeback
Before his injury, Marte was a key contributor to the Mets, posting a solid .278/.328/.416 slash line over 66 games. His offensive output included seven home runs, 30 runs batted in, and 12 stolen bases—all successful attempts. Marte's performance was valued at an estimated 0.4 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), underscoring his importance to the team on both sides of the ball.
To make room for Marte's return, the Mets designated outfielder Ben Gamel for assignment. Gamel, who made 18 appearances for the Mets, had been hitting .217/.400/.261 with one run batted in and a stolen base. The club now has a week to place Gamel on outright or release waivers. Given his more than six years of major-league service time, Gamel can reject any outright assignment, potentially becoming a free agent.
Outfield Adjustments
In Marte's absence, the Mets relied on a rotating cast of outfielders, including Brandon Nimmo, Harrison Bader, and trade-acquisition Jesse Winker. Winker has been a notable addition, batting .289/.319/.333 with two extra-base hits in his 14 games with the Mets. Earlier in the season, Winker posted a .257/.374/.419 slash line in 101 games with the Nationals, earning a commendable 128 OPS+.
The return of Marte will inevitably lead to adjustments in the outfield rotation. Nimmo and Bader have both proved valuable, and with Winker's recent form, the Mets now boast a deep and versatile group of outfielders. This depth will be crucial as the team faces a tough series of games in the coming weeks.
Playoff Pursuit
The Mets currently hold a 64-59 record, finding themselves nine games back in the National League East but just a single game behind in the hunt for the third and final NL wild-card spot. Following their series finale against the Miami Marlins on Sunday, the Mets will host the Baltimore Orioles for a three-game set starting Monday. With division rivals and other formidable opponents on the horizon, every game will be critical.
Managerial decisions, player performances, and health will all play crucial roles as the season winds down. The Mets aim to build momentum and improve their wildcard position, and the return of a player of Marte's caliber offers renewed hope and a sense of urgency among the fanbase.
Starling Marte's return could not have come at a more pivotal moment for the Mets. As they gear up for a high-stakes run to the postseason, having a proven performer like Marte back in the lineup strengthens their chances of securing that elusive wild-card spot. Mets fans, eager for success, will undoubtedly welcome him back with open arms, hoping he becomes the catalyst for a strong finish to the season.