Will Starling Marte make a significant impact with the Royals?
The Kansas City Royals were already expected to take a step forward heading into spring training. However, they recently upgraded their outfield by signing veteran outfielder Starling Marte. Could bringing in a 37-year-old outfielder end up being one of the most impactful signings of the MLB offseason?
Sure, Marte likely will not produce in a similar manner to other stars who signed this past offseason such as Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, Cody Bellinger and Alex Bregman. Marte is the perfect fit for this Royals team, however.
Royals' Starling Marte Signing Should Not be Overlooked
The Royals' infield is strong, and the overall pitching staff should be productive. Their outfield had the most questions heading into spring training.
Jac Caglianone features a high ceiling in right field, but he has yet to prove himself in MLB. Kyle Isbel has endured ups and downs in his big league career. Isaac Collins could make an impact, but he's only played one full MLB season. Lane Thomas was a quality veteran addition, but bringing in another veteran outfielder will only help matters.
Marte, a two-time All-Star, has played in MLB since 2012. He knows what it requires to find success at the MLB level. His leadership could help younger players take steps forward in their MLB careers.
Marte's performance should not be overlooked either. He can make a difference both on and off the field.
He was limited to 98 games played a season ago with the New York Mets. While on the field, Marte slashed .270/.335/.410. Sure he is not the same player he once was, but Marte is still more than capable of making a positive impact on a team.
Between adding another veteran on the roster and addressing their outfield uncertainty, the Royals' Marte signing projects to be one of the best of the offseason. Sure, it will not have the same impact as some of the other moves that saw the aforementioned players sign. Free agency is more than simply adding the best possible player, though. It is also about finding players who fit areas of need on rosters.
It is safe to say the Royals accomplished that feat. Kansas City wants to compete in 2026. The Royals are a candidate to bounce back after missing the postseason in 2025. While Marte may not make or break their season, he should give the ball club a boost in multiple ways.