PHOENIX. – Dominican star second baseman Ketel Marte will continue his career with the Arizona Diamondbacks next season, according to sources close to MLB.
The club’s decision to remove Marte from trade negotiations was confirmed following statements from general manager Mike Hazen, who indicated that the uncertainty about the player’s future would not be prolonged.
Although an official announcement hasn’t been made, the determination is considered final within the team.
A key player for the Diamondbacks
Marte, 32 years old, has established himself as one of the most complete players in Major League Baseball.
- He has been selected to three All-Star Games in the last six seasons.
- He was the National League’s starting second baseman in the two most recent Midsummer Classics.
- He won two Silver Slugger Awards.
- He recorded a .289/.363/.510 slash line, in addition to a 27.8 bWAR in that period.
Regarding individual awards, he finished fourth in the National League MVP voting in 2019, third in 2024, and 22nd in the past campaign, demonstrating his consistent impact on the field.
A contract that ensures continuity
A key factor in Marte’s staying power is his contract. The Dominican has signed three extensions with Arizona, the most recent in April, which ties him to the club until 2030, with an option for 2031.
Your salary is structured as follows:
- 2026: US$15 million
- 2027: US$12 million
- 2028: US$20 million
- 2029: US$22 million
- 2030: US$22 million
- Option 2031: US$11.5 million
The agreement also includes a deferred US$46 million, in addition to MVP voting-based incentives and plate visits.
Starting in April, Marte will acquire the so-called 10-y-5 rights, which will allow it to veto any change without its consent.
Impact on the Winter Market
The continuity of Mars has an immediate effect on the winter market.
The Diamondbacks, who were considering the possibility of signing an elite third baseman like Alex Bregman if they managed to trade Marte, are now out of that bidding.
Arizona had heard offers for the Dominican with the intention of reducing a payroll that reached US$195 million and reinforce its pitching staff, which has been affected by injuries.
Although the team signed Michael Soroka and recovered Merrill Kelly, it still needs to strengthen its pitching, although with less financial flexibility than at the beginning of the winter.
Effects on other teams
Teams like the Red Sox, Blue Jays, Mariners, Tigers, Pirates, Rays, and Phillies, who were linked to Marte during the Winter Meetings, have had to readjust their plans.
Boston, for example, is now focusing its efforts on Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette, while Toronto has set its sights on outfielder Kyle Tucker.
Seattle, after securing Josh Naylor and acquiring Dominican reliever José A. Ferrer, could remain calm heading into Opening Day.
