Arizona Diamondbacks Place Ketel Marte on Restricted List
The Arizona Diamondbacks placed All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte on the restricted list after he failed to appear for Monday’s game against the Red Sox, citing a personal issue. Manager Torey Lovullo described the situation as “crazy,” with limited communication from Marte and the team delaying their lineup until minutes before first pitch. The game, which took place on August 18, 2026, ended in an 11-1 loss to the Boston Red Sox, marking the first game of a series in Fenway Park.
2025 Home Burglary Led to Three-Game Absence
Manager Torey Lovullo expressed frustration over the lack of communication from Marte, stating, There was very little coming back after attempts to reach him throughout Monday. Lovullo, who has long defended Marte, admitted he still believed he was going to be here despite the uncertainty. The team ultimately placed Marte on the restricted list, a designation for players absent due to personal, legal, or non-baseball reasons, and recalled infielder Jose Fernandez to fill his spot. Lovullo added, I just was doing my best to reach out to him and there was very little coming back,
per source 2.
Diamondbacks Delay Lineup Until 15 Minutes Before First Pitch
Clubhouse dynamics were strained, with Lovullo acknowledging a lot of discussions about Marte’s absence. We care for Ketel,
he said, adding that the team relaxed once they confirmed he was physically OK. However, the incident reignited concerns about Marte’s reliability, particularly after his 2025 absence following a home burglary, which led to a three-game absence and an apology. Lovullo said, He didn’t show up today and he was put on the restricted list. That’s as much as I know right now,
per source 6.
2025 Report Suggested Diamondbacks Considered Trading Marte
This is the second straight season Marte has faced disciplinary action for unexpected absences. In 2025, he flew home to the Dominican Republic after his Arizona home was burglarized, losing $400,000, and missed three games. Despite apologizing, reports surfaced this season that Marte had frustrated segments of the organization by taking unsanctioned days off. Lovullo defended him in June, emphasizing that days off are needed and that the theme that he’s not a good teammate is not true. However, recent tensions escalated when Marte skipped a game against the Dodgers, citing lower back tightness. While Lovullo denied the reports, the Diamondbacks’ clubhouse remained divided. There’s this underlying theme that he’s not a good teammate, and it’s pulling at the fabric of the clubhouse chemistry,
a source noted. Lovullo countered, That’s not true at all.
The Diamondbacks’ 11-1 loss to the Red Sox highlighted the impact of Marte’s absence, as they struggled to secure a playoff spot. With a 66-60 record, Arizona trails the Padres and Phillies in the NL West race. Marte’s .249 batting average, 21 home runs, and 67 RBIs this season underscore his value, but his reliability remains a concern. The team has not disclosed when he might return, leaving the clubhouse in limbo. Lovullo said, I haven’t got that far,
when asked about potential resolutions.
The Diamondbacks delayed posting their starting lineup until 15 minutes before first pitch, as they hoped Marte would arrive in time for the game. According to source 10, Marte traveled with the team from Atlanta, where the Diamondbacks had just wrapped up a three-game series against the Braves, but did not arrive at Fenway Park as expected. The club had planned to play Marte as the designated hitter. When he didn’t show, Marte was placed on the restricted list, and infielder Jose Fernandez was activated from Triple-A Reno. Ildemaro Vargas, who has split time between first and second base this season, started the game at second, while Tim Tawa was Arizona’s first baseman.
Marte’s situation also complicates trade discussions. A 2025 report suggested the Diamondbacks considered trading him for prospects, though no deal materialized. His $105 million, six-year contract (now in its second year) makes him a high-value asset, but his recent behavior could influence future negotiations. For now, the team must navigate the uncertainty while focusing on the playoffs. The Diamondbacks have yet to confirm Marte’s status or the nature of his personal issue. Lovullo, who called the situation “unfortunate,” hinted at no immediate resolution, stating, I haven’t got that far.
The team’s next moves will depend on Marte’s return and how the clubhouse addresses lingering tensions. For now, the focus remains on stabilizing their playoff hopes without one of their key players. As the season progresses, Marte’s ability to reconcile his personal challenges with team obligations will be critical. The Diamondbacks, currently in a tight NL West race, cannot afford further disruptions. Whether this incident marks a turning point or a temporary setback remains to be seen.
