Mets willing to pay down some of Starling Marte’s contract in trade: report

The Mets are willing to pay down some of Starling Marte’s contract in a potential trade to improve their chances of a better return, according to Will Sammon of The Athletic.

Marte has long been viewed as a potential candidate as he is set to make $20.75 million during the final season of his contract and the addition of superstar Juan Soto, who plays just about every day in right field, makes him even more expendable.

The 36-year-old veteran also wouldn’t fit on the roster in the fourth outfielder role, as his deteriorating defense likely puts him behind versatile glove-first options such as Jose Siri and Tyrone Taylor in the pecking order.

If he does end up sticking around, though, he could potentially slot in as the Mets’ designated hitter.

Marte was slowed down by injuries again last season but was relatively productive when healthy, smacking seven home runs while posting a .715 OPS and stealing 16 bases.