BOSTON — Torey Lovullo, the manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks, mentioned he received information indicating that Ketel Marte had returned to Phoenix to undergo examinations on his left knee, expressing some surprise regarding the minimal contact he had with the All-Star infielder.
When questioned about whether he expected Marte to suit up for the D-backs again this season, Lovullo expressed optimism. The veteran second baseman, who has earned three All-Star selections, has compiled a .249 batting average alongside 21 home runs and 67 runs batted in across 118 appearances this year.
“His presence is vital for us,” Lovullo remarked ahead of Tuesday’s matchup with the Red Sox. “In my view, he stands out as one of the premier players in the National League.”
The Diamondbacks designated the 32-year-old Marte to the restricted list on Monday, marking the second consecutive year the team has taken this action with him.
Marte was absent during Arizona’s heavy 11-1 defeat in Boston on Monday evening, a situation Lovullo described as a chaotic day centered around the player’s personal matters. Lovullo noted that he attempted to communicate with Marte on Monday to clarify the circumstances but did not receive any definitive responses.
Although the second baseman initially made the trip to Boston with the roster, Lovullo was unsure of Marte’s whereabouts following Monday night’s defeat.
This occurrence is not the first unusual absence involving Marte.
During the previous season, he was placed on the restricted list after a burglary occurred at his Arizona residence over the All-Star recess. He was sidelined for three matchups after traveling to the Dominican Republic, his home country, and subsequently offered an apology for his time away.
