In a significant boost for the New York Mets, veteran outfielder Starling Marte was activated from the injured list on Sunday. The announcement comes as the Mets are embroiled in a fierce battle for a playoff spot, offering a welcome injection of defensive and offensive prowess. Marte, who will bat fifth and patrol right field, has been sorely missed since his sidelining nearly two months ago due to a bone bruise in his right knee.
Prior to his injury, Marte played in 66 games, posting a respectable .278/.328/.416 slash line. He also contributed seven home runs, 30 RBIs, and showcased his speed with 12 successful stolen bases. In terms of advanced metrics, Marte's performance had been valued at an estimated 0.4 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), indicating his overall contribution to the team.
To make room for Marte's return, the Mets made the tough decision to designate outfielder Ben Gamel for assignment. Gamel, who appeared in 18 games, struggled at the plate with a .217/.400/.261 slash line, managing only one RBI and a single stolen base. With over six years of major-league service time, Gamel can opt for free agency if he rejects an outright assignment, making his future uncertain. The Mets have a week to place him on outright or release waivers.
Marte's return couldn't come at a more critical time for the Mets, who currently hold a 64-59 record. They are nine games back in the National League East and just a single game behind in the hunt for the third and final NL wild-card spot. In Marte's absence, the Mets have relied heavily on a rotating outfield, featuring Brandon Nimmo, Harrison Bader, and trade-acquisition Jesse Winker. Before joining the Mets, Winker was slashing .257/.374/.419 in 101 games with the Nationals and had earned a 128 OPS+. In his 14 games with the Mets, Winker has hit .289/.319/.333, contributing two extra-base hits.
As the Mets square off against divisional rivals and competitors in the wild-card race, each game carries enormous weight. Following their series finale against the Miami Marlins on Sunday, the Mets will host the Baltimore Orioles for a crucial three-game set starting Monday. Managerial decisions, player performances, and overall team health will be pivotal as the season comes to its climax.
For Mets fans, the return of Starling Marte brings a renewed sense of hope and urgency. His seasoned presence in the lineup can offer just the spark they need as they aim to build momentum and improve their wildcard position. As the journey through the remaining games continues, Marte’s role could very well be a defining factor in the Mets' postseason aspirations.