Seattle Mariners Intensify Interest in Ketel Marte
The Seattle Mariners’ interest in acquiring the stellar Dominican player Ketel Marte has gained momentum, according to recent reports. The Seattle team seems to be more interested in the infielder than initially anticipated.
Ketel Marte, a three-time All-Star who plays for the Arizona Diamondbacks, has been linked to several teams during this offseason. Although the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox have been mentioned as possible destinations, the Seattle Mariners are now emerging as a serious contender.
The departure of Jorge Polanco, who signed with the New York Mets, has intensified the Mariners’ need to reinforce their infield position.
The Mariners’ interest grew once it was known that Arizona would be willing to listen to offers for Marte. However, the main challenge in finalizing the negotiation is the high price demanded by the Diamondbacks.
Arizona would be requesting a proven starting pitcher from the Major Leagues as a key part of the trade, a condition that Seattle’s management is unwilling to accept. Both Jerry Dipoto, president of baseball operations, and Justin Hollander, general manager, have made it clear that they will not negotiate with established pitchers from their rotation.
Additionally, the Diamondbacks don’t seem particularly interested in the advanced pitching prospects the Mariners possess, which has cooled conversations.
Despite these obstacles, Ketel Marte’s name remains one of the most attractive in the winter market, and his situation will continue to generate expectations as the offseason progresses.
