Ketel Marte's Future in Arizona Uncertain as Trade Deadline Approaches

PHOENIX — Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte finds himself at the center of growing tension within the organization, with the MLB trade deadline now less than two months away.

The 31-year-old Dominican Republic native has been a cornerstone of the Diamondbacks' infield for years, earning three All-Star selections including nods in each of the past two seasons. This winter, Arizona attempted to move him despite his obvious talent, according to league sources familiar with the situation.

The latest friction stems from Marte's decision to take days off during the season. Last Wednesday, he sat out a marquee matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, a game featuring star pitcher Shohei Ohtani. The following day, Marte returned to deliver a dramatic walk-off home run for the Diamondbacks.

Marte explained his absence through a translator after that game.

"We're all human, and we all need a day here and there," he said.

The reason for missing the Dodgers game involved both Marte's choice and legitimate physical concerns. He has been dealing with lower-back and hamstring ailments and was unwilling to risk aggravating those injuries.

This pattern of selective absences isn't new. Near the All-Star break last season, Marte's off-day requests created notable tension in the clubhouse. Teammates grew frustrated with the difficulty of planning around his schedule, and Marte ultimately issued an apology for the disruption.

With the trade deadline set for August 3, speculation about Marte's future will inevitably intensify. Teams seeking offensive firepower will surely inquire about his availability.

Any potential trade package would need to reflect significant value. Marte signed a six-year, $116.5 million contract extension that began this season, keeping him under team control through 2030 at a relatively affordable rate. The deal also includes a player option for 2031, when Marte will be 37 years old.

On the field, Marte brings versatility that extends beyond second base. Though that's his primary position, he has logged significant time at shortstop and center field during his 12-year major league career.

His 2025 statistics show some regression from his recent All-Star form. Through 60 games, Marte is hitting .250 with a .754 OPS—his lowest mark since his 2022 season in Arizona. He has produced 11 home runs, 37 RBIs, and 37 runs scored.

Whether those numbers and his positional flexibility will be enough to earn the Diamondbacks a substantial return—or whether the organization elects to keep him despite the internal frustrations—remains to be seen as the deadline looms.