ESPN: Ketel Marte, the Diamondback's Star Second Baseman, a Top Trade Candidate
With the Arizona Diamondbacks' second baseman Ketel Marte's name in the trade rumor mill, ESPN has listed him as one of the top players potentially on the trade block. The All-Star Marte is ranked second out of 40 potential trade candidates with a 40% chance of being traded, according to a list compiled by Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel.
The Pittsburgh Pirates, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals, Athletics, and New York Mets are considered potential suitors for Marte. Teams will have a clearer idea of the Diamondbacks' intentions after the winter meetings, as Marte's contract and performance make him a highly sought-after player.
Marte's contract, which includes a reasonable five-year, $91 million deal with a sixth-year player option at $11.5 million, means Arizona is likely to demand a substantial return in any trade discussions. MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported on November 25 that teams, including the Phillies and Toronto Blue Jays, have inquired about Marte's availability.
General manager Mike Hazen acknowledged that while Arizona is unlikely to trade Marte, they would consider trade offers. Marte's recent All-Star performance, where he hit .283 with 28 home runs and 72 RBIs, earning him a second Silver Slugger award and a spot on the All-MLB First Team for the second consecutive season, further highlights his value.
However, off-field drama surrounding absences and days off requests during the All-Star break caused Marte to apologize, adding a layer of complexity to his trade situation.
ESPN also identified other potential trade candidates for the D-backs, including Cincinnati Reds All-Star pitcher Hunter Greene. Greene had a strong 2025 campaign, with a 7-4 record in 19 starts, a 2.76 ERA, 132 strikeouts, and a 0.94 WHIP. Despite his strong performance, ESPN rates Greene's chances of being traded at only 10%.
The Reds' commitment to Greene, who has four more years at $60 million, makes him a valuable asset. With frontline pitchers on inexpensive contracts being highly sought after, the D-backs might need to look elsewhere for starting pitching, as Zac Gallen is a free agent and Corbin Burnes is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Additionally, the D-backs have identified first base and left field as top positions of need, with season-ending injuries to Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Tyler Locklear requiring replacements for the 2026 season. Potential candidates include Boston Red Sox left fielder Jarren Duran, Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Diaz, and St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Willson Contreras.
Follow @Leasure96 for more updates on potential trades and player movements.
