3 NY Mets players who should have a reduced role in 2025 if they're not traded first

The Mets must act with urgency to reduce Starlin Marte's role

At one point in time, Marte, now 36 years old, was a dynamic outfielder whose athleticism allowed him to thrive. He did a little bit of everything, from playing plus defense, tapping into some power, and providing speed on the basepaths.

Unfortunately, the Mets have seen very little of that player during his first three seasons in Queens. After signing a four-year $78 million contract Marte produced a solid 3.5 fWAR in 2022, his first season in the Big Apple.

The writing was on the wall from the start, however. His defense, previously a strength, had regressed in 2022 as he posted -2 outs above average while patrolling right field. Since then, his age-related decline has only gotten worse, both with the bat and in the field.

The Mets have options in the outfield. Brandon Nimmo is no star, but he's a solid overall player in left field. Tyrone Taylor brings a defense-first mentality that the Mets value. Newly acquired Jose Siri also brings a great glove and serious pop to New York despite some obvious contact woes.

Then there's the elephant in the room. Marte's countryman, Juan Soto, is waiting for the Mets to back up several armored trucks and make him an offer he can't refuse in order to come in and swipe Marte's job.

There lies the rub for Marte. Even if the Mets miss out on Soto, they'll likely pursue upgrades in the outfield to add another big bat to the lineup. If and when that happens, Marte, who hit just 7 home runs last season and posted a putrid 75 wRC+ in 2023, doesn't possess the bat to lock down the DH position and doesn't have the glove to play up as a fourth outfielder.

At best, his future with the Mets is coming off the bench, scrounging for at-bats at DH and in the outfield when a regular needs a breather. Unfortunately for New York, his contract is now bloated relative to his production, meaning he likely won't be an appealing trade candidate without a prospect attached to the package.

Regardless, you can expect to see a lot less of Starling Marte in 2025.