Assessing Noelvi Marte's Disappointing Season: Reasons for Optimism Moving Forward

Marte turned 23 on Wednesday.

Greg Kuffner | Oct 18, 2024

Sep 21, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds third baseman Noelvi Marte (16) scores on a RBI single hit by shortstop Elly De La Cruz (not pictured) in the sixth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images / Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

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Cincinnati Reds

After being called up late in the 2023 season at just 21 years old and hitting .316 over 35 games, Reds fans were very optimistic for Noelvi Marte's 2024 season.

However, the 23-year-old's season ended up being a big disappointment. Marte was suspended for 80 games in March after violating Major League Baseball's performance-enhancing drug policy.

Marte returned to play on Thursday, June 27 in St. Louis and started out with a bang, going 3-5 for three runs scored, an RBI double, and a stolen base.

After the stellar debut, Marte went 1-for-23, ultimately slashing .210/.248/.310 over 66 games.

It was a big step backward for Marte, who had such a promising start in 2023.

Marte also struggled at third base, committing 12 errors over 66 games and had -11 outs above average, which ranked dead last among Major League third baseman.

Despite Marte's struggles in 2024, I'm still optimistic about the 23-year-old's potential to bounce back and become a key piece of the future. It was an unusual season for him, missing 80 games due to suspension, followed by trying too hard to make up for lost time, which led to frustration when the results didn’t come.

However, the talent is undeniable, and I’m fully confident in his ability to turn things around. Young players often need time to develop and find their footing, and patience is crucial in their growth. I haven’t lost faith in Marte, and neither should you.

Two more hits from Noelvi Marte tonight and both to center field.

The more he is willing to drive the ball to the center field and the opposite to the opposite field, the better he will be.

Guy has so much talent. #Reds pic.twitter.com/Xa90qTxU8r
— Reds Daily (@RedsDaily4) August 7, 2024