Why Royals DFA'd former Pirates, Mets All-Star outfielder Starling Marte

The Kansas City Royals announced a flurry of roster moves on Monday afternoon. Third baseman Maikel Garcia and first baseman Vinnie Pasquantino have returned from the injured list. Left-hander Connor Thomas was recalled from Triple-A Omaha. That meant the Royals needed to open up three active roster spots. One of the moves the AL Central club decided to make was to designate outfielder Starling Marte for assignment, according to an announcement. Marte, 37, is a former two-time All-Star and fan favorite with the Pittsburgh Pirates and New York Mets. As of this morning, he is Major League Baseball's active stolen base leader with 363, 31 more than Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner. In 59 games with the Royals, Marte hit .242/.298/.314 with two home runs, 14 RBIs, two stolen bases i