Diamondbacks Make Ketel Marte Decision After Controversy

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Diamondbacks Make Ketel Marte Decision After Controversy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Pat Ragazzo | Last updated Aug 31, 2026 11:56 AM ET

The Ketel Marte saga has been one of the more bizarre storylines in baseball.

Marte was placed on the restricted list on August 17 after not showing up for the Arizona Diamondbacks’ game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. He instead chose to stay at the team hotel.

Shortly thereafter, he went back to Arizona to get an MRI on his knee. After finally having a discussion with Diamondbacks’ brass, the team made the decision to move him to the injured list on August 20 with left knee inflammation.

Now, the Diamondbacks will activate Marte from the IL today, according to MLB insider Francys Romero. Marte will address his teammates prior to the game after his latest drama.

Ketel Marte will be activated today by the Arizona Diamondbacks.

He is expected to play as the DH, and Marte will also address his teammates before the game.
— Francys Romero (@FrancysRomero) August 31, 2026

Marte is expected to DH tonight against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Marte already apologized to management for his no-show two weeks ago. He will have to do the same with his teammates in the Diamondbacks’ clubhouse.

While on the IL, Marte was also seen at a casino during one of the Diamondbacks’ games.

The Diamondbacks are in a heated pennant race in the National League, where they currently hold the third-and-final wild-card spot by a half game over the San Diego Padres.

It’s not ideal when one of your best players goes AWOL while you’re fighting for a playoff berth.

As reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Marte is also dealing with the loss of a close family member.

If he is healthy, the return of Marte will have a major impact on the field for the Diamondbacks. In 118 games, Marte is slashing .249/.314/.446 with a .760 OPS, 21 home runs and 67 RBI.

Marte will need to clear the air with his team, but if all is forgiven, his bat should be able to help Arizona’s playoff chances down the stretch.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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