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Royals Sign Starling Marte to $1M One-Year Deal

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The Kansas City Royals have signed veteran outfielder Starling Marte to a one-year, $1 million contract for the 2026 season. The 37-year-old two-time All-Star brings postseason experience and versatility to a young Royals roster. Marte can earn up to $2 million in bonuses based on roster status and performance.

Marte's career includes 163 home runs, 667 RBIs, and 361 stolen bases across 14 seasons with six teams. The two-time Gold Glove winner has been an All-Star twice and is one of only 19 players in MLB history with at least 150 homers and 350 steals. His postseason experience includes 25 games over six seasons.

Last season with the Mets, Marte struggled early but finished strong, hitting .295 over his final 57 appearances after a .220 start. The Royals designated outfielder Dairon Blanco for assignment to make room for Marte on the 40-man roster. Kansas City hopes Marte can provide veteran leadership and production off the bench or as a platoon option against left-handed pitching.