Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte has returned to Phoenix to undergo an MRI on his left knee while also dealing with a personal matter, adding another layer to a developing situation surrounding the three-time All-Star.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi first reported Wednesday that Marte had left the team in Boston and was headed back to Phoenix for the MRI. Morosi also reported that Marte’s agent, Charisse Espinosa-Dash, confirmed he is managing a personal matter while undergoing further evaluation on his knee.
Marte’s absence became a major storyline after he did not report to Fenway Park Monday despite being listed as the designated hitter. The Diamondbacks subsequently placed him on the restricted list.
The team is now awaiting the results of the MRI while Marte addresses the personal matter away from the club. His return timeline remains unclear.
The timing is significant because Marte had already been dealing with left knee soreness. He missed Arizona’s Aug. 14 game before returning to the lineup Aug. 16, only to leave the team shortly afterward.
Anna Carrington-Imagn Images
Espinosa-Dash said Marte appreciates the support he has received from his teammates, the Diamondbacks organization, manager Torey Lovullo and fans. She added that he remains optimistic about his recovery and hopes to return to the field as soon as possible.
Marte’s absence leaves Arizona without one of its most important offensive pieces as the Diamondbacks navigate a competitive NL West and Wild Card race. He is batting .249 with 21 home runs, 67 RBIs and a .760 OPS across 118 games this season.
With Arizona sitting third in the NL West at 66-61, the club will have to manage the immediate roster impact while waiting for more clarity on Marte’s knee and personal situation.
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