MLB Rumors: Starling Marte’s Market Forms; Giants, Marlins interested in Nick Castellanos

The offseason proceeds to apace, even if the threat of an early December lockout by the owner seems more likely than ever. However, we’re here to round up today’s free agent rumours. Let’s go there.

Marte market formed

Veteran midfielder Starling Marte is one of the biggest and most coveted names on the freelance market, and it’s not surprising that a number of aspiring candidates are interested in his services. Here’s the latest from Jon Heyman:

CBS Sports recently ranked Marte as the top free agent quarterback on the market. Here’s what we wrote at the time:

Marte, who turned 33 in October, has been an active player for more than a decade. He can hit average; he can gain base by becoming a hit magnet or (increasingly) by walking; he can give more than 40 basic hits; he can steal bases in large numbers and effectively; and, yes, he can play well out of the box, especially in a corner. The only things Marte can’t do is go back in time or make sure he doesn’t miss time with a fracture because of one of the aforementioned pitches. He easily became the best quarterback in his class.

NS Astros is a particularly attractive fit, as they have some instability at the heart of this season and will most likely look to replace some By Carlos Correa produced after the star lost its breath, perhaps showing signs elsewhere.

Giant, Marlins among groups interested in Castellanos

Slugger Nick Castellanos became a free agent when he opted out of the contract with Red early this season, and he’s starting to attract suitors. This is this from MLB Network’s Jon Morosi:

The right-hander, who will turn 30 in early March, is having an impressive 2021 season for the Red Devils. In 138 games, Castellanos won .309 / .362 / .576 (136 .) OPS +) with 34 home runs and 38 doubles. Those efforts helped Castellanos make his first All-Star appearance in his career.

For his career, he owns OPS+ of 115 in parts of nine major league seasons. During that period, he averaged 25 home runs and 41 doubles per 162 games played. He certainly leaves much to be desired with the glove, but keep in mind that the National League could very well have DH starting next season.