Diamondbacks Make Shocking Ketel Marte Roster Move

Aug 16, 2026; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) runs to the dugout during the game against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the fourth inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Diamondbacks Make Shocking Ketel Marte Roster Move

Originally posted on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI
By Alex D'Agostino | Last updated Aug 17, 2026 7:14 PM ET

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The Arizona Diamondbacks did not post their lineup on Monday evening until less than 10 minutes prior to first pitch against the Boston Red Sox. There was a surprising reason why.

The Diamondbacks, who have already made a significant multi-player roster move this afternoon, announced a last-second transaction.

Star second baseman Ketel Marte was placed on the Restricted List, and infielder Jose Fernandez was called up from Triple-A Reno to take Marte's place on the 26-man roster.

Diamondbacks place Ketel Marte on restricted list

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

This news is a bit of a shock, as Marte was not placed on the Injured List, but rather the Restricted List. Players on the RL are not paid during that time.

Marte was placed on the RL for a short stretch back in 2025 during his absence in the Dominican Republic that led to some frustration in the organization. That conflict has since been resolved, and there is no indication that this situation is of similar nature, yet.

A few days ago, Marte exited the series opener with the Atlanta Braves after the first inning, dealing with a minor knee issue. He was back in the lineup the next day.

Marte is having a bit of a down season in 2026, slashing .249/.314/.446 for a .760 OPS and a team-leading 21 home runs. He's remained generally productive, but has not been the top-tier star he was in recent seasons.

As of this writing, there has been no report as to the reasoning for this decision. It was not expected. Diamondbacks On SI will continue to report on this developing story.

This article first appeared on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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