Marte's Knee Test
D-backs Manager Lovullo: Ketel Marte Undergoes Knee Testing, Hopes to Play in 2026
Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte has returned to Phoenix to have his left knee tested, and manager Torey Lovullo says he hopes the three-time All-Star can play again in 2026. Fox Sports reported that Lovullo admitted he was "a bit surprised" by the lack of communication surrounding Marte's departure.
Marte was hitting .249 with 21 home runs and 67 RBIs across 118 games this season before leaving. Gazette Extra confirmed the Diamondbacks placed Marte on the restricted list — the second time in two seasons Arizona has had to do so.
Lovullo Surprised by Marte's Sudden Departure
Manager Torey Lovullo did not hide his frustration. Fox Sports reported he was surprised at how little communication came before Marte left the club. Lovullo said he was told Marte traveled back to Phoenix to get tests done on his left knee. The lack of a heads-up from Marte or his camp caught the manager off guard.
Despite that, Lovullo expressed optimism. He told reporters he is hopeful Marte will be able to return and play for the team in the 2026 season, according to WHIO. No timetable for the knee tests or a diagnosis has been shared publicly.
Marte Lands on Restricted List for Second Straight Year
Arizona placed Marte on the restricted list, which is used when a player leaves the team for personal reasons. This is the second consecutive season the Diamondbacks have had to take that step with Marte. Action News JAX confirmed the move, noting the team has been here before with their star second baseman.
Last season, Marte's home in Arizona was broken into. He missed three games after flying back to his native Dominican Republic to be with his family. That situation was resolved, and Marte returned to the field. This time, the issue appears to be a physical one involving his left knee.
Marte's Strong Season Interrupted at Crucial Point
Marte had been one of Arizona's most important hitters this season. Through 118 games, he posted a .249 batting average with 21 home runs and 67 RBIs, according to News4JAX. Those are solid numbers for a middle infielder, and losing him hurts the Diamondbacks lineup significantly.
Marte is a three-time MLB All-Star and one of the faces of the franchise. The Diamondbacks are counting on him to be healthy and ready for spring training in 2026. For now, the team waits on results from his knee testing before making any further announcements.
What Comes Next for Arizona's Infield
With Marte sidelined and on the restricted list, Arizona must adjust its infield plans for the rest of this season. The restricted list means Marte does not count against the active roster, giving the team flexibility to add another player. WHIO noted the club is watching the situation closely.
Lovullo's comments suggest the team is not giving up on Marte for 2026. But much depends on what the knee tests reveal. If surgery is needed, a return by spring training could be tight. The Diamondbacks have not set a deadline or given a firm recovery plan yet.
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