In a critical setback to their playoff drive, the Arizona Diamondbacks have placed their star second baseman, Ketel Marte, on the 10-day injured list due to a sprained left ankle. This injury, which has plagued Marte since August 10th following a collision with Garrett Stubbs of the Philadelphia Phillies during a tag play at second base, has continued to cause issues, prompting this decisive move.
Marte's injury initially seemed manageable, but after aggravating the ankle twice more after the original incident, the Diamondbacks determined that it was time to give their prominent infielder a chance to recover properly. This decision highlights the team's commitment to Marte's long-term health and their understanding of his pivotal role in their lineup.
Impact on the Diamondbacks
Marte, in his age-30 season, has been an indispensable asset for the Diamondbacks. Over 116 games this season, he has showcased his offensive prowess with a remarkable .298 batting average, a .370 on-base percentage, and a .560 slugging percentage, accumulating an outstanding 157 OPS+. His power at the plate is evident with 30 home runs, adding substantial firepower to the Diamondbacks' lineup.
The Diamondbacks, currently in possession of the second National League wild-card spot with a 69-56 record, are embroiled in a heated race. They trail the San Diego Padres, who hold the top wild-card position, by just one game and are four games behind the NL West-leading Dodgers. The absence of Marte could be a significant hurdle as the team strives to secure a playoff berth.
Next Man Up
In response to Marte's injury, the Diamondbacks have called up outfielder and first baseman Pavin Smith from Triple-A. Smith's versatility and potential to ignite the lineup could provide the spark the team needs during Marte's absence. Additionally, Kevin Newman is expected to assume the role of primary second baseman, a crucial adjustment for the team as they navigate this challenging period.
Marte's Return
The timetable for Marte's return remains uncertain, but the move to the injured list indicates a cautious approach, prioritizing his full recovery over rushing him back into action. Given Marte's track record and his impressive performance this season, the Diamondbacks will likely be cautious, ensuring that he is fully rehabbed before rejoining the squad.
The Diamondbacks' decision underscores the fine balance teams must strike between managing injuries and maintaining competitive performance, especially during the high-stakes final stretch leading to the playoffs. As the team adapts to the temporary loss of their star second baseman, the contributions of Smith, Newman, and others will be crucial in keeping Arizona's playoff dreams alive.