Starling Marte’s future in Queens looks uncertain. The 35-year-old outfielder, once a key piece of the Mets’ lineup, now finds himself in a reduced role as the short side of a DH platoon. With lingering knee issues and New York prioritizing younger, more durable options, Marte could be on the move before Opening Day. One team still lurking? The Kansas City Royals, nearly struck a deal for him this winter but couldn’t bridge the gap in trade talks.
This isn’t the first time Kansas City has kicked the tires on Marte. The Royals explored a trade with the Mets this winter, but talks fizzled when New York asked for a higher-end reliever like Hunter Harvey or Angel Zerpa, while Kansas City preferred to part with a lesser arm. Still, the Royals haven’t shut the door on Marte, and with their lineup still lacking a proven middle-of-the-order bat, he remains a logical target.
While Marte’s health is a question mark, he’s expected to get into spring training games very soon.
As confirmed by CBS Sports, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters this Monday that Marte is getting close, he’s progressing well, and we should see him in a game within the next few days. Though it’s unclear if that will be in a Grapefruit League game or a minor league setting.
Meanwhile, Kansas City didn’t sit idle this offseason. They pursued Anthony Santander aggressively, even offering a three-year deal, but he took Toronto’s five-year, $90+ million offer instead. They also explored trades for Angels outfielder Taylor Ward and briefly considered free agent Jurickson Profar, who landed in Atlanta. The fact that they’re still searching for a No. 5 hitter suggests Marte could be a fit—if the Mets are willing to negotiate.
However, the big hurdle remains Marte’s contract. In 2025, he is expected to make $19.5 million in salary. When we include his signing bonus, it goes up to $20 million, which is quite a hefty sum for someone whose peak performance may have passed already. The Mets could absorb part of his salary to facilitate a deal, but if the Royals take on most of the money, the return would likely be minimal.
Mets veteran presence for a young Royals team
The Royals have assembled a group of promising young players; however, an experienced veteran in the heart of their lineup could help them keep the balance. Alongside Bobby Witt Jr., Vinnie Pasquantino, and Salvador Pérez leading the charge for Kansas City’s team; they are on the lookout for another hitter to solidify their batting order. Starling Marte could be the missing piece, with two All-Star appearances and a Gold Glove under his belt even though he has faced injuries recently. He demonstrates his prowess when in health. If the Royals have confidence in his ability to remain in the game consistently on the field, Martes’ past involvement in matches extended playoff campaigns, and leadership positions could prove to be of worth, for a squad striving to make its way back up the ranks in the AL Central.
Marte has the chance to not only contribute on the field but mentor budding outfielders such, as Nelson Velázquez and Dairon Blanco. The Royals have experienced firsthand the effects of veteran leaders like Carlos Santana and Andrew Benintendi during times of change in their team composition. So Marte’s 13 years of expertise in Major League Baseball could offer a comparable source of guidance and inspiration for them.
In essence, if Marte proves he’s healthy and productive this spring, expect Kansas City to reignite trade discussions. The Mets don’t have a clear role for him, and the Royals need a veteran bat. If there’s ever a time for Marte to switch leagues, it might be now. What do you think? Can the Royals and Mets find common ground on a trade, or will Marte remain in New York despite his uncertain role? Let’s discuss.
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