Marte Nearing Return Amid Drama Before Phillies Series

The Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte has been at the center of a saga after he no-showed a game in Boston, was placed on the restricted list, and then moved to the 10-day injured list with left knee inflammation while rehabbing at Salt River Fields. Team officials, led by Torey Lovullo, say the plan is to reintegrate Marte in a low-pressure environment as he continues rehab, with batting practice underway. Reports pin an Aug. 31 return as a possible target, though the earliest date had been Aug. 30 ahead of a critical series with the Phillies, and timelines have fluctuated. Marte’s absence has sparked questions about his private approach and off-field activity, drawing attention from teammates and fans alike. The situation has fueled trade-rumor chatter and ongoing drama surrounding his role in Arizona’s postseason push. For now, Marte is nearing a return date, but his availability remains unsettled as the Diamondbacks balance roster needs with the public narrative.