The New York Mets made a move that raised some eyebrows on Monday, trading away Jeff McNeil to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for a 17-year-old pitching prospect. It’s a bold decision-McNeil has been a familiar presence in the Mets’ infield for years-but it also signals something bigger: the Mets are clearing the deck at second base, and they might not be done dealing just yet.
With McNeil gone, second base becomes a glaring vacancy, and that just so happens to be one of the most active positions on the trade market this offseason. And there’s one name that’s already generating buzz in Mets circles: Ketel Marte.
Marte, a three-time All-Star, is coming off a strong season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, slashing .283 with 28 home runs and 72 RBIs. That’s not just solid production-that’s impact-level offense from a middle infielder, and it’s the kind of bat that could change the complexion of a lineup.
Arizona signed Marte to a six-year, $116.5 million extension before the 2025 season, but now, less than a year later, they’re reportedly open to moving him. According to MLB insider Francys Romero, the Mets are believed to be exploring Marte as a potential trade target, or at the very least, they’ve entered discussions.
At 32 years old, Marte is at a crossroads in his career. He’s still producing at a high level, but the Diamondbacks may be looking to get ahead of the aging curve, moving his contract while his value remains high.
For the Mets, that could be an opportunity. If Marte continues to perform like he did this past season, the financial commitment could be well worth it.
Of course, the Mets aren’t the only team circling Marte. He’s a switch-hitting power bat who can handle second base-those don’t come around often, and contenders know it. But with a clear need at the position and the flexibility to make a deal, New York is in a unique position to strike.
The McNeil trade may have surprised some fans, but it also opened the door to something bigger. If the Mets are serious about contending in 2026, plugging Ketel Marte into that infield could be the kind of move that sets the tone-not just for the offseason, but for the season to come.