The Kansas City Royals have made it clear they are looking to improve their roster depth ahead of the 2026 season, particularly in the outfield. After a year in which production from that group was inconsistent, the front office has prioritized adding experienced bats who can contribute in multiple roles while also bringing veteran leadership to a relatively young lineup.
Kansas City’s offseason approach has centered on low‑risk, potentially high‑reward additions rather than massive long‑term deals. With several question marks still surrounding their outfield mix, the team needed someone who could stabilize the group, even if only in a part‑time role. That led them to pursue a veteran with a long track record of success at the major-league level.
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That player is Starling Marte, a two‑time All‑Star and two‑time Gold Glove winner who, despite being past his prime at 37 years old, still offers value in the right situation.
“The Royals have agreed to a deal with Starling Marte, per source. The deal is pending physical,” reported MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, officially confirming the move on Saturday.
The move gives Kansas City a proven hitter and one of the most accomplished base stealers of his era. Marte is MLB’s active leader in stolen bases with 361 for his career, a number that highlights the kind of speed element he can still bring when healthy. Even as his overall athleticism has declined with age, his instincts on the basepaths remain a weapon.
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In 2025 with the New York Mets, Marte appeared in 98 games and remained a productive offensive contributor. He hit .270 with a .335 on‑base percentage and a .745 OPS, adding nine home runs, 34 RBIs and seven stolen bases. While those numbers are not at the peak levels he once reached, they show he can still provide competitive at‑bats and situational value.
The biggest concern surrounding Marte at this stage of his career is durability. Injuries have limited him in recent seasons, preventing him from maintaining consistent playing time. Because of that, the Royals are unlikely to rely on him as an everyday outfielder, instead using him in a more flexible role that could include designated hitter at‑bats and selective appearances in the field.
For Kansas City, this signing is less about star power and more about raising the floor of the roster. Adding a veteran like Marte gives the team another reliable option while also providing mentorship for younger players trying to establish themselves. If he can stay healthy and contribute even at a moderate level, this could end up being a quietly impactful move for a Royals team looking to take a step forward.