Starling Marte officially activated off of IL, Ben Gamel designated for assignment

The Mets made the expected roster move on Sunday, activating outfielder Starling Marte off of the IL.

To make room on the active roster, outfielder Ben Gamel was designated for assignment.

Veteran outfielder Starling Marte rejoined the club the earlier this weekend, with manager Carlos Mendoza saying on Saturday that there was a “good chance” that Marte would be back in the lineup for Sunday’s series finale.

Marte has played in just 66 games this season after he landed on the IL in late June with a right knee bone bruise.

Even with Marte back, Mendoza explained that the Mets will continue to use a rotation of outfielders that includes Marte, Tyrone Taylor, Harrison Bader and Jesse Winker, in order to help keep Marte healthy down the stretch.

Marte said on Sunday that he’s on board with that idea, noting that the Mets have had success without him in the lineup, and that he trusts the manager’s decision.

“We just have to be smart, take care of him understand where we’re at and what he went through with this injury,” Mendoza said prior to Saturday’s game. “But we do have a plan.”

While Mendoza wouldn’t divulge the minute details of this rotation, he understands that Marte’s return means less playing time for other players. But he’s confident that those in the clubhouse will be on board.

“I’ll have those conversations with some of the guys,” Mendoza explained. “At the end of the day, they’ll have their at-bats, it’ll be in a rotation here. They’ll be active and their name will be called if their name is not in the starting lineup, doesn’t mean they won’t be a big part of the game. They’ll be ready to go.”

Before his injury, Marte slashed .278/.328/.744 with seven home runs and 30 RBI. Although the Mets offense has continued to put up runs and produce in his absence, Mendoza believes Marte can bring something more to this team.

“He’s a big part of this team. His bat, his speed, there’s a lot, his presence in the lineup the experience. We miss him,” Mendoza said of Marte. “The fact that we’re getting a healthy Marte here, especially where we’re at in the schedule is going to be huge for our team.”

Gamel, 32, has played in 18 games with the Mets this season, recording an OPS of .661. If he clears waivers, there’s a chance Gamel ends up back with Triple-A Syracuse, where he’s spent most of this season.