Starling Marte’s first year with the New York Mets came with high expectations, as he was an All-Star and contributed significantly to the team winning 101 regular-season games. However, his performance has significantly declined in recent seasons, leading to concerns over the $78 million contract he signed. This year, Marte has struggled to stay healthy, and his form has dropped dramatically, making his contract appear problematic.
While the Mets currently hold a strong position in the NL East with a 28-16 record, Marte’s struggles cannot be overlooked. He has transitioned from a prominent player to a part-time designated hitter this season, earning $20.75 million despite underwhelming statistics. With a batting average of .203, an on-base percentage of .317, and just two home runs in 27 games, his performance has raised alarms. Notably, his numbers against left-handed pitchers are particularly concerning, as he has managed a mere .182 average and has spent most of the season as a DH.
One troubling aspect of Marte’s decline is related to his once-stellar speed. Now 36 years old, he ranks in the 11th percentile for sprint speed and has only three stolen bases this year, compared to a career total of 455. This marks a stark contrast to the player he used to be, raising questions about his role in the lineup as the season progresses.
The Mets are likely to continue giving Marte opportunities to reclaim some of his lost form due to his contract and leadership within the clubhouse. However, if he cannot improve, the team’s pursuit of a World Series title may force them to reconsider his position in the batting order. There’s hope that Marte can turn his season around, allowing the Mets to salvage something from his contract while still maintaining their competitive edge.