Mets strengthen lineup with return of injured Starling Marte

For the first time since June 22, the Mets will have Starling Marte in their lineup.

They officially activated their outfielder from the injured list before Sunday's game against the Marlins and had him bat fifth in right field before completing a three-game set against their National League East opponent.

In a corresponding move, the Mets have nominated outfielder Ben Gamel for assignment.

Marte was on the injury list due to a bone bruise on his right knee.

In 66 games this season through Sunday, Marte had a .278 batting average with seven home runs and 30 RBIs and will now join a group of outfielders that also includes Brandon Nimmo, Harrison Bader, Jesse Winker and Tyrone Taylor.

JD Martinez has also been their regular designated hitter, so it's unclear what Marte's role and the roles of those around him in the outfield other than Nimmo will look like in the final stretch of the season.

“He's a big part of this team. His hitting, his speed, there's a lot there. His presence in the lineup, obviously the experience,” Mendoza told reporters Saturday before the Mets' win over the Marlins. “He's been in this league a long time and had a pretty good career and we missed him. The fact that we're getting a healthy Marte here, especially with our current schedule, is going to be huge for our team.”