Hold onto your hats, baseball fans, because the Kansas City Royals just made a move that’s sure to shake things up! The Royals have signed veteran outfielder Starling Marte to a one-year Major League contract, adding a proven powerhouse to their lineup. Marte, who will don the number 0 jersey, brings a wealth of experience and an impressive stat sheet to the team. But here’s where it gets interesting: to make room for Marte, the Royals designated outfielder Dairon Blanco for assignment, a decision that’s already sparking conversations among fans.
At 37, Marte isn’t just another player—he’s a legend in the making. With 14 seasons under his belt across five teams (Pittsburgh, Arizona, Miami, Oakland, and the Mets), he’s a career .285 hitter with a .781 OPS. And this is the part most people miss: Marte is one of only 19 players in Major League history—and the only active player—to achieve at least 150 home runs and 350 stolen bases. Talk about a rare feat!
His accolades don’t stop there. Marte leads all active players in stolen bases (361), hit-by-pitches (166), and outfield assists (107). Plus, his 55 career triples tie him with none other than Mike Trout for the most among active players. But here’s the controversial question: Can a 37-year-old still bring the same fire to the field? Marte’s recent performance suggests he’s far from done. In the 2024 postseason with the Mets, he hit .277 with 9 RBI in 13 games, proving he’s still a force to be reckoned with.
Last season, Marte batted .270 with a .745 OPS in 98 games, showcasing his versatility by starting at designated hitter, left field, and right field. While he struggled early on, hitting just .220 in his first 41 games, he rebounded strongly with a .295 average in his final 57 games. And this is where it gets even more intriguing: Marte’s ability to turn his season around mid-stride raises the question—is he the missing piece the Royals need to make a playoff push?
With two All-Star selections (2016 with Pittsburgh, 2022 with the Mets) and back-to-back Rawlings Gold Glove Awards (2015-16), Marte’s resume speaks for itself. But what do you think? Is this signing a home run for the Royals, or is Marte past his prime? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
