The Kansas City Royals just picked up veteran outfielder Starling Marte on a one-year deal. They’re hoping he’ll give their bench some depth and serve as a platoon option against left-handed pitching.
The move came out of Surprise, Arizona. As part of the shuffle before spring training, the Royals also designated outfielder Dairon Blanco for assignment.
Deal details at a glance
The Royals signed Marte for one year at $1 million guaranteed. He could earn up to $2 million more through roster and performance bonuses.
Marte, now 37 and a right-handed hitter, is expected to come off the bench and face lefties. Kansas City’s hoping his experience will add something to their outfield mix.
Contract specifics
Contract: One year, $1 million guaranteed, with up to $2 million available in bonuses.
Age: 37.
Role: Bench depth and platoon option, especially against left-handed pitchers.
Marte’s career, accolades, and postseason pedigree
Starling Marte has played 14 seasons in the majors with the Pirates, Diamondbacks, Marlins, Athletics, and Mets. He’s put up a .285 career batting average, 163 home runs, 667 RBIs, and 361 stolen bases.
Only 19 players in MLB history have at least 150 homers and 350 steals, so Marte’s combo of power and speed stands out. He’s won two Gold Gloves and made the All-Star team in 2016 and 2022, showing off his defensive skills and versatility in the outfield.
He’s also played in 25 postseason games across six playoff runs. That kind of experience could matter for a Royals team that wants leadership and someone who’s handled high-pressure situations.
Why Marte fits Kansas City in 2024
Marte seems like a practical addition for the Royals. He brings bench stability and gives the club more options in the outfield.
His right-handed bat and speed give Kansas City some depth behind their regular starters. He can play multiple outfield spots and step in when someone needs a break.
What Marte could bring to the lineup and roster
- Reliable depth off the bench, plus that postseason experience
- Platoon potential against left-handed pitching, giving the team more lineup options
- Defensive flexibility to cover most outfield positions, easing the load on everyday players
- Veteran presence in the clubhouse, which could help the younger guys during spring and early in the season
- Contact skills and speed that might help with baserunning and late-inning pressure
Roster implications and what to watch in spring training
The Royals just designated Dairon Blanco for assignment, which opens up a roster spot. That move shows Kansas City’s ready to take a calculated risk with a veteran who could contribute right away if things line up.
Marte’s contract runs just one year, with some possible bonuses. The Royals get to see how he fits and performs as the season goes, without locking themselves in long-term.
During spring training, scouts and coaches will pay close attention to Marte’s mobility. They’ll also look at how he handles lefties and whether he blends in with the current outfield group and those younger prospects eager for a shot.
Here is the source article for this story: Royals sign Starling Marte to a one-year, $1M deal
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