Diamondbacks May Explore Trading Ketel Marte This Winter

Ketel Marte faces an uncertain future with the Arizona Diamondbacks as the franchise prepares to explore trade possibilities for the veteran infielder this winter, according to MLB.

Mike Hazen Considers Roster Adjustments After Playoff Misses

Arizona general manager Mike Hazen said that the team needs to make adjustments to the roster structure after falling short of the playoffs in each of the last three seasons. The Diamondbacks won 84 games during their World Series run in 2023, followed by win totals of 89, 80, and 86 in subsequent campaigns.

“Simplemente creo que en la etapa en la que estamos, dado que nos hemos quedado cortos de los playoffs en los últimos tres años [con] el grupo que fue a la Serie Mundial, creo que debo estar dispuesto a hacer ajustes en la estructura del roster,” Hazen said.

Discussions regarding Marte began during the General Managers Meetings in Las Vegas. Complicating matters further, Marte secured 10-and-5 rights in April, meaning he must approve any future transaction.

The situation is further influenced by an incident in August when the infielder failed to report to a game at Fenway Park, marking a repeat of past unauthorized absences. Following a meeting with Hazen and manager Torey Lovullo to apologize to teammates, the team had initially moved forward.

Al Bat said that the Tampa Bay Rays emerge as a potential suitor with the necessary flexibility, while El Fildeo reported that the New York Mets are also exploring trade discussions. El Fildeo said that a potential infield combination in Queens featuring Francisco Lindor, Bo Bichette, and Marte is fueling speculation among fans.

Marte Earns $87.5 Million Through His Contract Terms

Marte is owed $87.5 million over the next five campaigns, which includes $12 million for next year with $3 million deferred. His numbers dipped in 2026 to a .249 batting average, 22 home runs, 76 RBIs, and a .748 OPS, according to Al Bat. The contract also includes a player option for 2031.

“Veo a los Rays metiéndose de nuevo en esto. Obviamente, no tienen que dar tanto como hace un año. Tiene un contrato razonable… “Y necesitas una presencia fuerte en el clubhouse si vas a traer a Marte”, dijo Bob Nightengale en el podcast Foul Territory.”

Diamondbacks Plan to Lower Payroll While Addressing Bullpen Needs

The Diamondbacks held a payroll just above $200 million last season and plan to lower that figure for 2027, with approximately $170 million already committed. Hazen emphasized the need to reinforce the middle bullpen following the departures of free agents Kevin Ginkel, Jonathan Loáisiga, and Ryan Thompson, alongside acquiring a left-handed infielder or a better bat against right-handed pitching.

“Creo que vamos a necesitar mejorar el pitcheo; siempre vamos a necesitar mejorar el pitcheo,” Hazen said.

“Creo que todos lo hacen. Perdimos la parte media de nuestro bullpen. La parte trasera de nuestro relevo es buena, pero la sección media necesita ayuda.”

Unresolved Questions

While the front office evaluates its next steps, the volatility of the player's recent behavior combined with his full no-trade power makes any potential deal difficult.

It is not yet known if a suitor will meet Arizona’s valuation, nor has it been confirmed if Marte would waive his veto power to facilitate a move to a specific contender. The team intends to resolve the status of his future before finalizing the remainder of their offseason strategy.

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