For the first time since June 22, the Mets will have Starling Marte in their lineup.
They officially activated their outfielder from the injured list before Sunday’s game against the Marlins and started him in right field — the fifth spot — before finishing a three-game series against their National League East opponent.
In a corresponding move, the Mets designated outfielder Ben Gamel for assignment.
Marte was on injured reserve with a right knee contusion.
In 66 games this season through Sunday, Marte was hitting .278 with seven homers and 30 RBIs, and now he’ll join a collection of outfielders that also includes Brandon Nimmo, Harrison Bader, Jesse Winker and Tyrone Taylor.
JD Martinez has also been their regular designated hitter, so it’s unclear what Marte’s role and the roles of those around him in the outfield besides Nimmo will look like down the stretch of the season.
“He’s a big part of this team. His hitting, his speed, there’s a lot to talk about. His presence in the lineup, his experience obviously,” Mendoza told reporters Saturday before the Mets’ win over the Marlins. “He’s been in this league a long time and had a pretty good career and we’ve missed him. The fact that we have a healthy Marte here, especially where we are in the schedule, is going to be huge for our team.”
