New details emerge on Ketel Marte's situation with Diamondbacks

Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

New details emerge on Ketel Marte's situation with Diamondbacks

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Aug 18, 2026 3:57 PM ET

New details have emerged regarding Ketel Marte’s mysterious situation with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Marte is returning to Arizona in order to undergo an MRI on his knee, according to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic. The infielder has been bothered by a knee injury for some time and left last Friday’s game as a result of knee pain.

A knee issue still does not explain the drama surrounding Marte’s placement on the restricted list on Monday night. Reports suggest the Diamondbacks had expected him to arrive for their game in Boston, but he did not turn up at the ballpark.

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo only raised concern about Marte with his emotional response to the second baseman’s absence after the game.

Ketel Marte is returning to Arizona to undergo an MRI on his knee, according to a source.
— Nick Piecoro (@nickpiecoro) August 18, 2026

There remains a great deal about the Marte story that does not add up. His absence Monday certainly does not seem to be knee-related, since the Diamondbacks placed him on the restricted list, which is usually used for unexcused absences. Even if there were worries about his knee, he would have either been at the ballpark or placed on the injured list. For now, the team is offering no further explanation, which will only invite more speculation.

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