ESPN: Ketel Marte, the Diamondback's Star Second Baseman, a Top Trade Candidate
With the Arizona Diamondbacks' star second baseman, Ketel Marte, rumored to be on the trading block, ESPN has ranked him as one of the top players potentially available for trade. In a recent list compiled by Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel, Marte was placed second out of 40 potential trade candidates, with a 40% chance of being traded. The Pittsburgh Pirates, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals, Athletics, and New York Mets are considered potential suitors.
Marte's contract, worth $91 million over five years with a sixth-year option, makes him a highly sought-after player. The Diamondbacks are expected to demand a substantial return for their best second baseman. As of November 25, MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported that teams like the Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays have inquired about Marte's availability.
General Manager Mike Hazen acknowledged the possibility of trading Marte, despite it being unlikely. Marte's recent All-Star performance, where he hit .283 with 28 home runs and 72 RBIs, earned him his second Silver Slugger award and a spot on the All-MLB First Team for the second consecutive season. However, off-field drama surrounding the All-Star break, including absences and days off requests, caused Marte to apologize.
ESPN also identified other potential trade candidates for the D-backs, including Cincinnati Reds All-Star pitcher Hunter Greene. Greene's impressive 2025 campaign, with a 7-4 record, 2.76 ERA, 132 strikeouts, and a 0.94 WHIP, makes him an attractive option. However, the Reds' commitment to Greene for four more years at $60 million makes him a valuable asset. Starting pitching is a critical need for the D-backs, with Zac Gallen as a free agent and Corbin Burnes recovering from Tommy John surgery.
In addition to Greene, the D-backs are considering Milwaukee Brewers' Freddy Peralta, Washington Nationals' MacKenzie Gore, and Royals' Kris Bubic. The team also requires reinforcements in first base and left field due to season-ending injuries to Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Tyler Locklear. Potential candidates include Boston Red Sox's Jarren Duran, Tampa Bay Rays' Yandy Diaz, and St. Louis Cardinals' Willson Contreras.
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