Diamondbacks scratch Ketel Marte from starting lineup vs. Orioles

The Arizona Diamondbacks pulled second baseman Ketel Marte from the starting lineup minutes before first pitch on Tuesday against the Baltimore Orioles with lower back tightness.

Marte hit two home runs on Monday in a 9-7 loss to the Orioles to open the three-game series.

The Diamondbacks initially had Marte leading off on Tuesday against Baltimore left-hander Trevor Rogers, but the club moved Ildemaro Vargas from first base to second base and up from batting fifth into the lead-off spot.

Luken Baker entered the starting line at first base, his first start with the Diamondbacks.

Arizona has dealt with numerous injuries already this season, and they made a series of roster moves before the game started on Tuesday.

The D-backs placed catcher Gabriel Moreno on the 10-day injured list with an oblique strain and moved first baseman Pavin Smith to the 60-day IL with left elbow troubles. Diamondbacks radio broadcaster Chris Garagiola reported that Smith will have surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow.

Catch Tuesday’s game on ESPN 620 AM and the Arizona Sports app. 

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