Ketel Marte Targets Aug. 31 Return as D-backs Chase NL Wild Card Spot

Ketel Marte began batting practice in Scottsdale on Monday as he prepares to return for a home series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo announced Monday that three-time All-Star Ketel Marte is scheduled to rejoin the lineup on Aug. 31. The target date coincides with the start of a home series against the Philadelphia Phillies at Chase Field. Marte, a 32-year-old second baseman, has been absent for roughly two weeks following an unexpected departure from the team prior to a scheduled game in Boston.

Before Monday’s matchup against the Chicago Cubs, the Diamondbacks held a 69-62 record. This standing placed Arizona exactly two games behind the San Diego Padres for the final National League wild-card position. Marte’s path back to the active roster involves transitioning from the restricted list to the 10-day injured list, a move necessitated by mild inflammation discovered in his left knee. Lovullo noted that the planned return date would mark the 10th or 11th day of his recovery stint, emphasizing a specific strategy to ensure the veteran is healthy for the stretch run.

Batting Practice and Physical Progression

Marte initiated his baseball activities on Monday at the Diamondbacks' training facility in Scottsdale. Hitting coach Joe Mather observed the session and reported feeling encouraged by the progress shown during batting practice. Despite this physical advancement, the infielder has not yet spoken to his teammates regarding the circumstances of his mid-August exit. Lovullo described Marte as a private individual and stated that the team is focused on creating a "soft space" for him to reemerge into the clubhouse environment.

This incident marks the second consecutive season Marte has spent time on the restricted list. During the previous year's All-Star break, he missed three games after his Arizona residence was burglarized. That situation required him to fly to his home in the Dominican Republic, an absence for which he later issued an apology. The current disappearance occurred during the heat of a playoff race, leading to internal discussions about how the player will eventually address the roster.

Rallied Support Amid Fan Reception Concerns

Manager Torey Lovullo addressed the potential for a negative reaction from the home crowd when Marte eventually takes the field in Phoenix. While acknowledging the possibility of booing from fans, Lovullo described Marte as a "loving young man" and stated the organization would rally around him regardless of the reception. The manager emphasized his respect for Marte’s individuality, noting that the second baseman "goes to the beat of his own drum."

As the D-backs pursue a postseason berth, the return of their All-Star second baseman remains the primary focus of the coaching staff. Lovullo reiterated that he cannot force the player to address the team or the public on a specific timeline, leaving the method of his reintegration up to Marte himself. The team continues its series against the Cubs while waiting for the veteran to complete his rehabilitation program in Scottsdale ahead of the August 31 series opener against Philadelphia.