On Wednesday, one of the All-Stars for the New York Mets will return to the field.
Starling Marte, an outfielder for the Mets, struggled in 2023 and was never able to get back on track. Due to injuries, the two-time All-Star was only able to play in 86 games; on August 5, he completed his season.
According to SNY’s Danny Abriano, Marte will play in his first Grapefruit League game of the spring on Wednesday. Marte has been recovering and trying to get back after surgery.
“Marte is looking to rebound after a 2023 season where he was never fully healthy following double groin surgery,” Abriano said. “He played winter ball in the Dominican Republic during the offseason and said he’s ready to play “170” games this season. He is set to make his Grapefruit League debut on Wednesday.
“He’s doing a lot of backfield activities where he’s facing live pitching, sprinting, doing different drills,” (Carlos Mendoza) said as transcribed by Abriano. “The goal is for him to be in the lineup tomorrow.”
In 2024, Marte could significantly improve New York if he is fully healthy. Injuries undoubtedly contributed to the Mets’ disappointing 2023 season. Marte was an All-Star in 2022, and New York could benefit greatly if he can get back to his previous level of play.
On paper, the Mets appear to be in a much better position now than they were at the end of the 2023 campaign. Though it hasn’t invested much, New York has added a number of interesting things.
In 2024, New York might surprise a few people, and having a healthy Marte only would help.