In the Mets’ recent 5-3 victory over the Giants, Starling Marte recorded two hits, raising his season statistics to a .289 batting average, .372 on-base percentage, and .416 slugging percentage over 200 plate appearances in 2025. This performance corresponds to a strong 129 weighted runs created plus (wRC+), highlighting the veteran player’s sustained value even in his age-36 season. According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, several teams have expressed interest in Marte as the trade deadline approaches, sparking curiosity about potential offseason moves involving the experienced slugger.
Marte’s Role and Offensive Metrics This Season
During 2025, Marte has predominantly filled the designated hitter position, making only a few appearances in corner outfield spots. Originally planned to share duties in a righty/lefty DH platoon with Jesse Winker, Marte has seen more playing time against right-handed pitching. Prior to the Giants game, his OPS was .793 in 86 plate appearances versus left-handed pitchers and .762 over 110 plate appearances against righties. Aided by a high batting average on balls in play (.336 BABIP), Marte has shown efficiency in producing runs despite limited power output, continuing to deliver productivity within a narrowed role.
Contract Details and Possible Trade Considerations
This campaign marks the last year on Marte’s four-year, $78 million contract signed during the 2021-22 offseason. For 2025, Marte’s remaining salary stands at approximately $6.4 million of the original $19.5 million annual salary. Although this sum is not excessively large for the remaining two months, it raises questions about its value given Marte’s part-time DH position. Discussions within the Mets organization have included proposals to cover some of the remaining salary to facilitate a trade. While Marte’s name surfaced during previous negotiations, no definitive deal has been reached as of yet.
Interest from Other Teams, Especially Kansas City Royals
The Kansas City Royals have been publicly linked to Marte’s availability, though no agreement was finalized. Considering the Royals’ offensive struggles and limited contributions from their current outfielders, Marte remains an attractive candidate to strengthen their lineup, primarily as a designated hitter. However, Kansas City’s recent acquisition of Randal Grichuk, a more versatile defensive player, might have reduced the urgency to pursue Marte aggressively. Still, theoretical interest in Marte from the Royals remains plausible as they seek offensive reinforcements.
Implications for Mets Roster and Trade Strategy
Trading Marte could provide the Mets with greater roster flexibility, particularly as the team currently features an abundance of position players. Though some younger infielders have had inconsistent performances this season, the Mets appear inclined to trade a veteran with an expiring deal rather than part with controllable young talent. This strategy also aligns with the preference to retain players who might attract more value from trade partners, despite the inherent appeal of younger athletes.
Mets Prioritize Pitching in Possible Marte Deals
The Mets are expected to seek pitching assets in exchange for Marte or other trade candidates. Reports suggest interest in various starting pitchers as the deadline nears. Still, according to team president of baseball operations David Stearns, the bullpen remains a primary focus, even after acquiring reliever Gregory Soto. Along those lines, The Athletic’s Will Sammon noted Ryan Helsley as a potential bullpen target, although as of early Sunday, the Mets have not engaged in formal discussions with the St. Louis Cardinals about obtaining their closer.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Can Starling Marte speak English?
A. He reached the major leagues in 2022, and he also improved his English skills so he could participate in interviews.
Q. Is Starling Marte good?
A. Before he got hurt, Marte had a batting average of .270, an on-base percentage of .353, and a slugging percentage of .387. He hit four home runs in 58 games. In the month after June 5, he was one of the top hitters for the Mets, achieving averages of .349 for batting, .391 for on-base, and .460 for slugging.