Ketel Marte Activated as Diamondbacks Prepare for Phillies Series

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Arizona Diamondbacks activated infielder Ketel Marte from the injured list on Friday, ahead of their series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies. Marte, who has missed the last four weeks due to a left hamstring strain, was reinstated as the team prepares for a crucial stretch of games.

Marte sustained the injury while running the bases on April 4 against the Washington Nationals. He had only appeared in eight games prior to his placement on the injured list, posting a .346 batting average, three doubles, and a .469 on-base percentage.

D-backs manager Torey Lovullo confirmed Marte’s likely return to the lineup, stating, “There’s a really good chance he’s going to be playing second base tonight.” The timing is crucial, as the Diamondbacks have struggled against left-handed pitching, batting just .232 with a .646 OPS this season.

In Marte’s absence, rookie Tim Tawa has stepped up. While Tawa is hitting .190, he holds a solid .787 OPS due to his five home runs in just 19 games. Lovullo noted Tawa’s impressive performance as a reason for keeping him on the roster instead of optioning him to the minor leagues.

The Diamondbacks optioned outfielder Jorge Barrosa back to Triple-A Reno to make room for Marte. Barrosa struggled at the plate, hitting just .200 in five games.

With the Diamondbacks facing a tough upcoming schedule against several National League contenders, Marte’s return adds much-needed power to the lineup. In 2024, he finished third in National League MVP voting after batting .292 with 36 home runs and 95 RBIs.

Lovullo emphasized the importance of Marte’s presence, stating, “He’s not going to Philly to see the Liberty Bell for crying out loud. He’s coming here to play some baseball.”

As the D-backs look to improve their record, Marte’s ability to drive in runs against both lefties and righties could prove pivotal in their upcoming games. Fans are eager to see how his return impacts the team’s performance.