PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — After the Mets signed Juan Soto in December, they told Starling Marte they would try to trade him, he said Sunday. But they didn’t find a match, so here he is at Mets camp, still on the roster but without his usual starting spot in rightfield, now occupied by Soto.

Starling Marte appreciates the transparency he received from the Mets as they essentially recruited over him this offseason.

Nolan Arenado and Starling Marte are in similar situations during spring training. However, the Mets outfielder has chosen a different approach than the Cardinals star regarding trade rumors.

The Mets were "really transparent" with Starling Marte about trade talks this winter. Visit MLB Trade Rumors for more.

Star, Marte is entering the final season of a four-year, $78 million deal that will pay him $20.75 million in 2024. Currently, he projects as the designated hitter in lineups against left-handed pitching.

Now that Pete Alonso is restored to the lineup, the Mets have yet another player who, barring injury, will play every day. That takes away opportunities from some of their veterans, including one they're paying $20.

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza is a "major advocate" for veteran outfielder Starling Marte remaining with the team and not being included in a trade this spring. Marte, 36, has been reported to be offered in trade discussions ever since the club signed outfielder Juan Soto,

Veteran Starling Marte will have to get used to a new role, but it doesn't seem to bother him much as he continues to be a positive influence.