MLB trade rumors: New York Mets potentially eyeing $116.5 million Arizona Diamondbacks star to replace Jeff McNeil and improve title odds

The New York Mets created a clear opening in their infield when they traded Jeff McNeil. Since then, league talk has centered on one name: Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks. According to MLB insider Francys Romero, the Mets’ interest picked up right after the McNeil deal was finalized.This would not be a minor adjustment. If the Mets push this through, it would reshape their infield and signal a clear focus on winning now.On December 21, 2025, the New York Mets sent Jeff McNeil to the Oakland Athletics along with $5.75 million in cash. In return, they received minor-league pitcher Yordan Rodríguez. The move cleared McNeil’s $15.75 million salary for 2026 and removed a club option for the same amount in 2027.McNeil remained a steady player, but his role no longer matched where the roster was headed. The trade gave the New York Mets financial room and flexibility in the infield.Arizona is not shopping Marte, but teams know the Diamondbacks will listen if the return fits their long-term plans. Pitching is the priority.A realistic offer from the Mets would likely include: • One top pitching prospect such as Brandon Sproat or Jonah Tong • Infielder Brett Baty as a controllable position player • Reliever Huascar Brazobán to add immediate bullpen depth Ketel Marte is under contract through at least 2030. He will earn $16 million in 2026, with salaries rising to $22 million later in the deal, plus a player option for 2031. Any team acquiring him takes on the full contract.For the New York Mets, Ketel Marte brings a middle-of-the-order bat and defensive flexibility. He fits cleanly alongside Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto and can handle multiple positions if needed.For the Diamondbacks, the appeal is timing. Ketel Marte is entering his age-32 season. Moving him now could return young pitching that better lines up with their next competitive window, while also easing long-term payroll pressure.Ketel Marte provided more power and reached base at a higher rate. McNeil continued to make contact, but the overall impact gap was clear.New York Mets positives: • Clear upgrade in the lineup • Contract certainty compared to free agency • Fits the current roster without major positional issuesMets risks: • Age-related decline over the life of the deal • High prospect cost • Long-term salary commitmentArizona Diamondbacks positives: • Young pitching depth • Payroll flexibility • Roster reset around a younger coreDiamondbacks risks: • Loss of a proven All-Star • Short-term offensive drop • Clubhouse impactIf the New York Mets complete this move, it would be a direct bet on the present. Marte gives them a stronger bat and more flexibility without entering the open market. Arizona would gain young pitching and financial room but give up one of its most reliable players.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Yankees could pivot towards $80 million Chicago Cubs hard-hitter after missing out on Kyle TuckerNothing is done yet, but the direction is clear. The Mets are looking to make a major change, and Ketel Marte sits at the center of it.