3 Mets players who should be on a short leash in 2024

3. Starling Marte

The Mets have had players every season with untradable contracts, hoping to just find value for their dollars. Add Starling Marte to this list, coming off an underwhelming 2023 season. He played just 86 games and hit .248 with 5 home runs and 28 RBI. Marte ripped just 7 doubles and 1 triple, which is far from his 24 doubles in 2022. The only positive statistic worth noting is his 24 stolen bases, which is up from 18 in 2022 due to the larger bases.

Marte also saw a steep decline in his defensive capabilities. Last season, Marte was unable to track down fly balls we saw him catch in 2022, namely a pop-up he missed against the Pittsburgh Pirates that Austin Hedges turned into a double. When Billy Eppler agreed to a 4-year contract, the idea was that Marte would play center field, but has only played right field. Suffice it to say, this contract has become another stain on Eppler’s resume.

Acuna and Gilbert should be major league-ready if they are not already on the roster by then. Marte seems to be a placeholder until one or both of them are promoted and make an impact. Not to mention the recent outfield addition of Bader, Marte’s future with the Mets hinges on his performance in April. Given his track record of injuries, PED suspensions, and now turning 35, the Mets have no reason to just hand Marte an everyday role.