ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
Reports: D-backs, Ketel Marte discussing contract extension
The Arizona Diamondbacks and All-Star Ketel Marte have engaged in contract extension talks, MLB insider Robert Murray first reported on Saturday.
Marte, 28, signed a five-year extension worth $24 million in 2018, before he broke out as one of the most impactful hitters in Major League Baseball. His current deal includes two club options for 2023 and 2024 worth $10 million and $12 million, respectively, according to Spotrac.
Ketel Marte and the Arizona Diamondbacks have had recent talks about a contract extension, according to sources familiar with the situation. Marte, 28, has one year and two club options left on his current contract and Arizona is trying to keep him long-term.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) March 26, 2022
MLB Network insider Jon Heyman reported on Saturday that the discussed extension offer guaranteed the two option years while adding three more worth $75 million.
Arizona acquired Marte after the 2016 season in a trade that sent infielder Jean Segura and outfielder Mitch Haniger to the Seattle Mariners. He was an every-day player for the D-backs during their playoff run during the second half of 2017, and he batted .412 in four postseason games.
He hit .329 with a .981 OPS and 32 home runs en route to finishing fourth in the National League MVP race in 2019, when he reached his first All-Star Game. He continued to hit well last season, although hamstring and hip injuries held him to 90 games.
The D-backs went 52-110 last season, which prompted trade rumors regarding Marte, although he assured that his priorities are with Arizona and his focus is on staying healthy.
“I don’t focus on that,” Marte told reporters on March 14. “I feel great. I don’t want to leave the organization, but if I was at another organization, I’d give 100% of myself and be ready.”
The D-backs are looking to turn a page after suffering the second-most losses during a season in franchise, and they have developed one of the highest regarded farm systems. The reports indicate Marte is a part of Arizona’s long-term plans, as the reported extension would lock him in through his age-33 season.
