Starling Marte's Free Agency: Juan Soto Praises Veteran Outfielder's Leadership

Veteran outfielder Starling Marte is a free agent after four seasons with the Mets, and teammate Juan Soto has publicly endorsed his return. Soto emphasized Marte's leadership and presence in the locker room, stating the team needs someone who helps through difficult periods. Despite his Mets tenure being marred by injuries, Marte was an All-Star in 2022 and contributed in 2025 as a bench hitter, slashing .270/.335/.410 with a .745 OPS, nine home runs, and 34 RBI in 98 games. The Mets' appetite to sign the 37-year-old remains unclear, but Soto's support is significant.