A proposed mock trade has sparked discussions about a potential bad contract landing on the Braves payroll.
Trade deadline deals between the New York Mets and their division rivals are not uncommon. Last year, the Mets sent David Robertson to the Miami Marlins. The Philadelphia Phillies have previously acquired Asdrubal Cabrera, Jose Bautista, and Jason Vargas from the Mets. In 2015, the Mets traded Kelly Johnson and Juan Uribe to the Atlanta Braves.
FanSided’s Zach Pressnell suggested another interdivisional trade between the Mets and Braves, aimed at finding a replacement for Ronald Acuna Jr.: Starling Marte.
In exchange for Marte, the proposed trade would send Braves prospect Darius Vines to the Mets. Vines, a 26-year-old right-hander, has struggled in Triple-A this season and is ranked 14th in the Braves farm system by MLB Pipeline. Moving him from a starter to a reliever could potentially ignite his performance.
Marte has shown improvement this season, with a .276/.326/.414 slash line in 228 plate appearances. His OPS has increased by over 100 points from last year, thanks in part to a resurgence in his power hitting. Despite ongoing health concerns, including a recent right knee issue, Marte has been more active this season compared to last year. However, as an aging outfielder who once relied heavily on speed, his durability remains a concern.
Marte is owed the remainder of his $20.75 million contract this year and the same amount next season. The Mets could use this money more effectively elsewhere. However, Marte’s high salary makes him difficult to trade, particularly to a team like the Braves, who are unlikely to take on such a financial burden. Marte would become the third-highest paid player on the Braves, potentially hindering their financial flexibility for future decisions.
From the Mets’ perspective, offloading Marte’s contract would be highly beneficial for next year, regardless of their competitive prospects this season.
Leave a Reply