Even though he is easing into spring training, Starling Marte has Opening Day on his radar.
The Mets outfielder underwent abdominal muscle surgery in November, which Marte elaborated on Sunday. Marte disclosed that the treatment was performed on both groin tendons that had become detached from the leg. According to Marte, the surgery on his right groin was prophylactic; it was recommended to him immediately before he underwent surgery on his left groin.
The veteran outfielder missed games due to left groin difficulties last season, causing the 34-year-old Marte to search for a possible cure.
Marte stated through an interpreter at Clover Park, “It was affecting me for the majority of the season… and happily I was able to finish the season.” “After the season concluded, we decided to perform the operation.”
Marte’s intention to not rush was a big reason in his decision to withdraw from consideration for the Dominican Republic’s team in the World Baseball Classic.
He anticipates entering the weight room first and testing his leg strength. When asked if he would be ready for Opening Day, he responded in the affirmative.
Marte stated that he and the team have been in close contact during the whole offseason. “I have gone to New York, where I was tested, as well as upon my arrival here. So, we’re developing a plan for this spring training to ensure that I’m prepared.
“The main factor in [missing the WBC] is having surgery and not being 100 percent to play at the highest level in such a situation. It is terrible that I am unable to represent my country at this time, but you must simply move on and prepare for the season.”
After signing a four-year, $78 million contract with the Mets, Marte appeared in 118 games and recorded a slash line of.292/.347/.467 with 16 home runs and 63 RBIs. Marte missed the most of September after being struck by a pitch and suffering a fractured right middle finger. Marte returned to the Mets lineup for their NL wild-card series loss to the Padres. The Mets were ineffective offensively without Marte and lost the NL East battle to the Braves after leading for the most of the season.
Marte stated, “We had a fantastic season last year.” “But, in my case, not being able to play in September… I was disappointed I was unable to assist the club during that time, but thank God I made it to the playoffs, where we gave it our all, and this year will hopefully be better than last.”
Marte, who batted.167 (two-for-twelve) in three postseason games, reported that his finger had healed, but he must remain careful.
“We continue to perform workouts on it to ensure that everything is ready to go,” he said.
Marte completed the 2016 season with 18 stolen bases on 27 attempts. The installation of wider bases this season could result in a greater focus on the running game, and Marte could become more aggressive in his pursuit of stolen bases. He was 47 for 52 in stolen base attempts in 2021.
Marte stated, “If I am healthy, I have always been an aggressive player.” “I’ve always been a runner who enjoys getting into scoring position so that the hitter can drive me in. Thus, I am able to play on the bases and in the field, depending on my physical condition.
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