Starling Marte Finally Gets Call-Up from Pittsburgh Pirates
By Matt Shetler
The wait is finally over for Pittsburgh Pirates prized prospect Starling Marte.
According to a report from Kristy Robinson from Pirates Prospects, the Bucs will finally call-up Marte for the series beginning in Houston tomorrow.
Robinson’s report was confirmed by Dejan Kovacevic as well.
CONFIRMED through #Pirates source who just talked to Marte: He WILL meet team in Houston. He’s in the majors.
— Dejan Kovacevic (@Dejan_Kovacevic) July 25, 2012
Marte’s pitch selection can be called into question at times, but there’s no knocking the overall talent. His line in Triple-A Indianapolis was a solid 286/.348/.500 and Marte has posted OPS marks of .944 in June and .924 in July.
Looking at the Pirates corner outfielders now, Garrett Jones has an OPS of only .789, Drew Sutton (.717), Josh Harrison (.658) and Alex Presley (.634). Even though he’s been seeing minor league pitching, Marte has shown ability that neither of the Bucs corner outfielders have.
His power has been outstanding, with 47 extra-base hits, and his speed and defensive abilities have long been regarded as plus tools.
The only question of him has been his ability to not go outside of the strike zone, but he’s improved in that area this season, with 28 walks and 90 strikeouts so far.
While the Bucs wanted to be patient with Marte, it’s a little surprising they waited this long to promote him. His statistics are excellent, and the Pirates have seen lackluster play from their corner outfielders in recent weeks as Jones and Sutton have botched plays in the outfield.
One thought of Marte’s promotion is that they are showcasing him to possibly trade him, but one thing is for sure and that’s as long as he’s in a Pirates uniform, the kid is going to play.
Marte will likely be the Pirates’ starting right fielder, although his exact role hasn’t been announced yet. It will be interesting to see how he does initially as a Marte-Andrew McCutchen outfield could be something to watch for years to come.
To make room on the 25-man roster for Marte, the Bucs have optioned Evan Meek back to Triple-A Indianapolis. Another roster move will have to come to make room for newly acquired Wandy Rodriguez.