PORT STREET SEA — After playing in winter ball last month, Starling Marte is confident in his health and ability to play everyday right field for the Mets.
Marte, 35, missed most of the final two months of last season with a strained muscle in his right groin, making him a question mark heading into the offseason.
But Marte, who underwent double groin surgery the previous winter, arrived at camp feeling better.
Marte said he told team officials he wanted to play in the Dominican Republic over the winter to show he was ready.
“I know I’m good [physically]” Marte said Sunday.
There’s a chance the Mets will include him in the DH mix this season, but Marte said he prefers to play right field.
Last season, he played in just 86 games and hit .248/.301/.324 with five home runs and 28 RBIs. Marte, who suffered migraines last summer that led to him staying on the IL, is halfway through a four-year contract worth $78 million with the club.
“Especially after watching him play in the Dominican Republic… it was good to see him move around,” manager Carlos Mendoza said. “It was important for him to win every game and play back-to-back games. He’s going to be a big part of what we’re trying to do.”
Mendoza said Marte is still considered a full-time right fielder.
“This guy is special. He can influence the game and help us win in different ways,” Mendoza said. “He brings a lot to the table, defensively, baserunning, offensively. If he can get back to being the player we expect him to be, that’s a big asset for us.”
Coach Mendoza is scheduled to address the team before the first full-team practice on Monday.
The rookie manager spoke to pitchers and catchers last week.
“It’s important to get fit right away,” Mendoza said. “It’s not just about the message, it’s about how we act after the message. Follow-up is important, and if we come here expecting what we’re trying to do here, it’s not just about how we act after the message.” We make sure it’s not just one day, it’s every day. It’s not just the first day with a full team, it’s every day.”
Mendoza, a former minor league manager, said he didn’t need advice on what to say.
“I’m just going to be myself and be authentic,” Mendoza said. “Not at the major league level, but I’ve been in a room like that before. I’m looking forward to it.”
Brandon Nimmo suffered from a stomach illness and departed before exercising.
Mendoza expects the outfielder to be able to participate in Monday’s practice.
