2) The status of Mets outfielder Starling Marte
Starling Marte has been a good signing for the Mets in their aspirations to compete for a championship. In 118 games played last year, Marte racked up 16 home runs, with 76 runs scored, 63 RBI, and 18 stolen bases with a .292/.347/.468/.814 line.
Marte lost games in 2022 for multiple reasons. First, a left oblique tightness in March, left quadriceps discomfort in June, groin tightness in July, and a non-displaced fracture of his right middle finger, in September. Then, in the offseason, he underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury he suffered in the second half of last year.
The Dominican was supposed to be ready and healthy for spring training but has yet to see action. The delay in Marte's return may jeopardize his opening-day status with the team.
Marte's presence in the Mets lineup and the outfield is vital to every matchup. Especially since the Mets don't have enough depth and reliable players to fill these holes on both sides of the ball. Let's hope the outfielder can be fully recovered and in time to start the season with the team, who must start on the right foot if they are to face the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies for the NL East pennant.