The New York Mets experienced a significant roster change on Sunday as they activated veteran outfielder Starling Marte from the injured list. Marte, who had been sidelined for almost two months due to a bone bruise in his right knee, was penciled in to bat fifth and cover right field.
Marte's absence was keenly felt by the Mets, given his notable contributions earlier in the season. Prior to his injury, Marte played in 66 games, posting a solid .278/.328/.416 slash line. He had also hit seven home runs, driven in 30 runs, and successfully stolen 12 bases. His overall impact on the team was quantified at an estimated 0.4 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), underscoring his value to the lineup.
To accommodate Marte's return, the Mets made the tough decision to designate outfielder Ben Gamel for assignment. Gamel, who had made 18 appearances for the team, was hitting .217/.400/.261 with one run batted in and a stolen base. The club now has a week to place Gamel on outright or release waivers, which means he could become a free agent if he rejects any outright assignment. Given his over six years of major-league service time, Gamel is certainly a candidate for free agency.
Throughout Marte's absence, the Mets relied heavily on a combination of outfielders including Brandon Nimmo, Harrison Bader, and trade-acquisition Jesse Winker. Winker, in particular, has been a vital asset, batting .289/.319/.333 with two extra-base hits in his 14 games with the Mets. Earlier in the season with the Nationals, Winker had slashed .257/.374/.419 across 101 games, earning a 128 OPS+.
As it stands, the Mets hold a 64-59 record, making them nine games back in the National League East. They are, however, just one game behind in the quest for the third and final NL wild-card spot. The urgency is palpable as they head into the final stretch of the season.
The Mets are set to finish their series against the Miami Marlins on Sunday before hosting the Baltimore Orioles for a crucial three-game set starting Monday. This schedule pits them against both divisional rivals and formidable opponents in the wild-card race. With the return of Marte, the Mets aim to build momentum and enhance their wildcard position as the season winds down.
Managerial decisions, player performances, and health considerations will be pivotal. The return of Starling Marte, a proven contributor, provides renewed hope for Mets fans and adds a layer of urgency for the team. As they look to navigate the challenges ahead, the performance and health of their outfield configuration will likely play a critical role in determining their postseason fate.