SCOTTSDALE, Arizona. – After an offseason filled with speculation about a possible trade, star Dominican infielder Ketel Marte returned to spring training with a clear message: his desire was always to stay with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
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Marte reported early to Salt River Fields focused not only on the upcoming Major League season, but also on the World Baseball Classic, where he will once again be one of the main figures for the Dominican Republic national team. Although he debuted in the Majors with Seattle, it was in Arizona where the 32-year-old player achieved his consolidation as a star. Since his arrival in 2016 – in a trade that also involved Mitch Haniger, Jean Segura and Taijuan Walker – Marte became one of the most valuable pieces of the organization. In nine seasons with the D-backs, the Dominican has been a three-time All-Star, has won two Silver Bats, and has finished in the top four in the National League MVP voting twice. In addition, he was named MVP of the Old Circuit Championship Series in 2023, solidifying his status as a club reference. During the winter, general manager Mike Hazen acknowledged that he would listen to offers for the second baseman as part of an attempt to adjust the payroll. However, the executive made it clear that the price for Marte would be high, and ultimately no team met Arizona’s expectations. “It was never really close to happening,” explained Hazen, who had direct conversations with the player once he decided to close the door on any negotiation. For his part, Marte assured that he understands the nature of the business, although he admitted that some comments on social media affected him. “This is baseball, I know how it works. But I love the D-backs and I want to be here,” said the Dominican, making clear his commitment to the franchise and his teammates. Hazen even apologized to the player for the public exposure generated by the rumors. “It’s not easy to constantly read about a possible change. Ketel handled everything with professionalism,” said the executive. With the issue overcome and the relationship strengthened, Marte is already working at the highest level for a new season in which Arizona once again bets on his offensive leadership and experience. The organization is confident that its star will have another outstanding year, while Marte himself reaffirms that his priority was always to wear the Diamondbacks uniform.
