The Mets‘ 2024 struggles have been well-documented. The blue and orange entered the campaign with a roster that had the potential to sneak into the playoffs. Instead, they have underperformed and are heavily involved in trade rumors despite the calendar just flipping to June.
A key reason for the Mets’ struggles has been they have yet to have a roster at full strength.
2023 all-star and ace of the staff Kodai Senga has yet to appear, as he began the season on the injured list after suffering a shoulder strain during spring training.
Francisco Álvarez tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his thumb, which required surgery to repair. Brooks Raley had to undergo season-ending elbow surgery, and Edwin Díaz has missed time with a right shoulder impingement, and the catalog of injuries continues.
On Wednesday, the Mets got bit by the injury bug once again.
Starling Marte was scratched from the Mets’ lineup
Before Wednesday’s series finale against the Washington Nationals, the Mets had to scratch outfielder Starling Marte.
“He mentioned something about his right knee. He felt something in the seventh inning,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “He didn’t think much of it. I was like, ‘Just get treatment on it,’ which he did last night.”
1) SNY on X: “Carlos Mendoza says that Starling Marte is dealing with a right knee issue, and he should be available off the bench today https://t.co/tCa5akZgrS” / X
Marte initially thought he would be good to go, which is why the Mets listed him in the lineup. However, after not being 100% on Wednesday, the blue and orange decided to be cautious with the Dominican Republic native and scratch him from the lineup.
The organization’s concern at the moment is said not to be super high, and despite being removed from the lineup, Marte is expected to be an option off the bench.
Marte has bounced back nicely in 2024, slashing .276/.326/.414 across 56 games with six home runs and 25 RBIs while also stealing 10 bases.
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Who would replace Marte
If Marte’s knee continues to act up, Tyrone Taylor, who is replacing the 35-year-old in the lineup today, would likely get the bulk of the opportunities.
Taylor has slowed down after a scorching start but is still slashing .235/.258/.339 across 46 games with two home runs and 16 RBIs.
Hopefully, Marte does not have to miss any time, but if he does, Taylor would be the player with the most to gain.