Royals Secure Starling Marte with One-Year Contract
The Kansas City Royals are actively seeking upgrades for their outfield after a lackluster offensive performance last season. Among the potential recruits is veteran Starling Marte, according to reports from Yancen Pujols and Jon Heyman. The Royals have initiated discussions with the former New York Mets outfielder regarding a one-year contract.
Royals’ Outfield Challenges
Last season, the Royals struggled to produce offensively from their outfield. Although they have added players like Isaac Collins and Lane Thomas, they want more depth and experience. The team is particularly counting on Collins and Thomas to secure positions in the lineup, despite both players recovering from injuries.
Starling Marte’s Background
- Age: 37
- Former Teams: Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets
- Career Highlights: Gold Glove winner, 2015 All-Star
- Previous Contract: Four-year, $78 million deal with the Mets
Marte’s performance has varied throughout his career. He began in 2012 and had notable success as a high-contact, high-average hitter. He was an All-Star in 2022, batting .292 with 16 home runs. However, his 2023 season was disappointing, as he hit .270 with nine home runs in just 98 games.
Recent Performance and Potential Role
This past year, Marte’s challenges continued. He recorded only 12 outfield games and had an Outs Above Average rating of -8. Given these statistics, he may primarily occupy a designated hitter role should he join the Royals.
Outfield Prospects
Collins and Thomas are both vying for left field positions. However, Collins is recovering from a knee injury whereas Thomas recently underwent foot surgery. As the Royals look to enhance their outfield depth, securing Starling Marte with a one-year contract could be a pivotal move.
