Diamondbacks retain Ketel Marte amid disciplinary actions and performance debate

Arizona Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen said the club will continue to rely on Ketel Marte because of his talent, noting that a balance must be struck between player behavior and the production needed to win games.

"He’s an extremely talented player. At some point, there’s a balance between what you are willing to deal with to get a level of production that can win you baseball games. We’re in the business of winning baseball games," Hazen said. Marte, a 32-year-old second baseman under a seven-year, $116.5 million extension, missed a scheduled start at Fenway Park on Aug. 17 and was placed on the restricted list without pay. He later apologized in a meeting with Hazen, manager Torey Lovullo and his agent, after which the team moved him to the injured list. He is eligible to return on Monday. Lovullo expressed disappointment, describing the incident as a personal betrayal, but also affirmed his support for the player. "I love Ketel Marte. My relationship with him is not going to change," he told reporters. Marte’s on-field contributions this season include 21 home runs and 67 RBIs, tying him for the team lead in homers despite a .314 on-base percentage, his lowest since 2016. Analysts note his value exceeds his salary, with recent metrics estimating his performance worth more than three times his earnings. The Diamondbacks have considered trading Marte but have not received offers they deem fair for a switch-hitter with power. With full no-trade protection now in place, Marte can veto any future deal. Team members, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they are fatigued by the recurring distractions, while others defended Marte, citing personal hardships such as recent family losses and a knee injury. The club remains in contention for a wild-card spot, sitting one game behind the San Diego Padres after a recent loss to the Red Sox. Management indicated that clubhouse cohesion and player comfort are ongoing concerns, but emphasized that Marte’s production is viewed as essential to the team’s competitive prospects.