The Arizona Diamondbacks are fighting for a playoff spot with 34 games remaining, but one of their best players has made that effort far more difficult.
Ketel Marte, a three-time All-Star and the longest-tenured player on the roster, vanished without explanation during a road trip in Boston earlier this week. His absence left teammates and management searching for answers—and manager Torey Lovullo feeling personally hurt.
Marte’s absence leaves Diamondbacks searching for answers
“Once I saw what was unfolding, I became extremely frustrated,” Lovullo said Friday. “I felt betrayed. That kind of pain is different. But I’m past it now.”
The Diamondbacks held a meeting Thursday involving Marte, general manager Mike Hazen, and Marte’s agent. Afterward, the 32-year-old second baseman was placed on the 10-day injured list with left knee inflammation. Lovullo shared few details but acknowledged Marte had been frustrated by the injury. Marte, who bats from both sides, was set to serve as the designated hitter Monday night before disappearing.
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“There are right and wrong ways to handle situations,” Lovullo said. “The conclusion yesterday was that we all could have done better. Ketel especially.”
“I don’t enjoy the distractions around this team,” he said. “I want to build a strong baseball team, and we need to resolve this.”
Marte’s history of unexpected absences
This is not the first time Marte has left the team unexpectedly. Last season, he went on the restricted list after his Arizona home was burglarized during the All-Star break. He missed three games while traveling to the Dominican Republic and later apologized for the disruption.
The Diamondbacks may be more forgiving because of Marte’s importance to the franchise. He has recorded 1,215 hits and 189 home runs since joining the team in 2017 and is under contract through 2030, with a player option for 2031. He remains a respected figure in the clubhouse.
“I care about Ketel Marte—my relationship with him won’t change,” Lovullo said.
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Still, the situation has left teammates uncertain. Reliever Kevin Ginkel said players were disappointed but also worried about Marte’s well-being. “There’s no clear reason for it,” Ginkel said. “We have about 30 games left, and getting him back could give us momentum.”
Ginkel noted the team would like to hear Marte’s perspective, though it’s unclear if that will happen. For now, the focus stays on his recovery—both physically and mentally—and his ability to help the team down the stretch.
The Diamondbacks have no room for mistakes. Every game matters, and Marte’s absence increases the pressure. Whether he returns soon or not, the team must adapt without one of its key players.
Lovullo’s frustration is understandable, but the real issue is whether Marte’s latest disappearance will have long-term effects. The team has been patient before, but with a playoff spot at stake, that patience may not last.