While new general manager Ben Cherington has not committed to a rebuild, it certainly is a possibility, if not the expectation. If he does decide to sell, the Mets could make a push for one of the Pirates' best players.
On Saturday, Jon Heyman reported the Mets are interested in Starling Marte.
Mets have interest in Starling Marte. Fits what they seek — strong defender in CF, righthanded hitter. Pirates still working on manager. Uncertain if he’ll be dealt. Cubs, Reds, Padres among others who will look at center fielders.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 23, 2019
Marte had arguably the best offensive season of his career in 2019, setting a new career high in home runs (23), RBIs (82), runs scored (97), OPS (.845) and slugging percentage (.503). He also was an effective base stealer, swiping 25 bags compared to six caught stealings, and provided quality defense in center field. He finished with 3.0 fWAR in 132 games played.
Marte would be a major upgrade at an area of need for the Mets, who just missed the playoffs in 2019. Last season, they finished 27th in baseball in WAR from their center fielders (-0.4), struggling on both offense and defense.
The center field market is thin this offseason, so the Mets will likely not be the only team to express interest in Marte.
The Pirates picked up their 2020 club option on Marte on Nov. 4. He will make $11.5 million in 2020. He also has one club option in 2021 remaining on his contract, valued at $12.5 million.
Heyman also listed the Cubs, Reds and Padres as other teams looking for center field help this offseason, though it seems unlikely the Pirates would trade Marte to a divisional opponent.
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