November 12, 2008 Damaso Marte has signed a three-year deal to remain with the Yankees, according to the Associated Press. Financial terms were not disclosed, but it is believed the deal is worth $12 million.
Our View:He took time to get adjusted to the Yankees and the AL since being acquired from the Pirates, but finished the year strong as he only allowed two earned runs in his final 16 appearances (11 innings). He would have been a favorable target among teams if allowed to hit the free agent market.
November 6, 2008 Damaso Marte had his 2009 option declined by the Yankees on Thursday, though the team certainly hasn't closed the door on bringing back Marte at a rate less than the $6 million he was to earn on his old deal, according to the Yankees Official Website.
Our View:Marte is a solid left handed reliever, he posted a 1.20 WHIP with a strong 9.83 K/9 mark this past season in 72 appearances, and he will clearly be a target of many clubs once the free agent period begins.
August 4, 2008 Damaso Marte got the loss for the Yankees as he gave up a grand slam to Marlon Byrd of Texas in the bottom of the ninth.
Our View:Marte has value in leagues that use holds, or in AL-only leagues for owners needing a boost in strikeouts.
July 25, 2008 Not only did New York land one of the most coveted bats of the trading season, they also got one of the most coveted relief arms when they acquired Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte for four prospects, according to SI.com.
Our View:Marte and his 1.16 WHIP had been on the radar of many teams, but he and Nady go to New York for a package of Tabata, Ross Ohlendorf, Phil Coke and one other minor league prospect.
July 22, 2008 A team source reported that Boston's interest in Damaso Marte has heightened, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View:The Red Sox are said to be one one many teams interested in the Pirates' reliever. Marte has racked up 46 strikeouts over 45.2 innings, but holds a 3.55 ERA and 1.16 WHIP. His fantasy value would likely decrease with a new team as he would probably be moved out of his current role of closer to fit into a setup role.
