D’Backs Won’t Revisit Ketel Marte Trade Talks, Hazen Says

This article digs into why Ketel Marte looks set to stick with the Arizona Diamondbacks, even after months of wild offseason trade rumors. It unpacks General Manager Mike Hazen’s stubborn approach, the ripple effect of Marte’s contract extension, and how would-be suitors have mostly dropped off as 2026 creeps closer.

Mike Hazen Draws a Clear Line in the Sand

Back in late December, Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen basically said he was done talking trades for Ketel Marte. By January 9, several reports confirmed what plenty of folks already guessed: Arizona had stopped shopping its All-Star second baseman.

Hazen told MLB.com he set a deadline on purpose. He didn’t want rumors hanging over the team or leaking through the league all winter.

Why Credibility Matters in MLB Front Offices

Hazen believes changing his mind after declaring Marte off the table would hurt his credibility—with players and with other teams. Trust is everything in front offices, and if you back out, future deals get a lot trickier.

He admitted he’d listen if someone made a ridiculous offer, but the message was clear enough: Arizona expects Marte to anchor the roster.

Marte’s Extension Changed the Market

Arizona’s decision to extend Marte in April stirred up the offseason drama. The extension covers the 2025–31 seasons and tacks on $64 million in new money, so there’s $102.5 million left over six years.

In a league where middle-infielders cost a fortune, Marte’s deal looks like a steal for a player at his level.

A Cost-Effective Star at Second Base

Compared to other recent free-agent contracts, Marte brings top-tier production for a reasonable price. That got a lot of teams interested, especially the ones hoping to upgrade the infield without blowing up payroll.

His switch-hitting power, ability to move around the diamond, and playoff resume made him one of winter’s most attractive trade targets.

Which Teams Came Calling—and Which Fell Away

All winter, Marte’s name popped up with all sorts of teams. Some connections felt like pure speculation, but a few clubs seemed genuinely interested.

Teams reportedly linked to Marte included:

• Boston Red Sox
• Detroit Tigers
• Toronto Blue Jays
• Seattle Mariners
• Tampa Bay Rays
• Philadelphia Phillies
• Pittsburgh Pirates
• San Francisco Giants

Changing Needs Around the League

Since then, a bunch of those teams filled their second-base gaps elsewhere. Pittsburgh grabbed Brandon Lowe, Tampa Bay brought in Gavin Lux, and Toronto signed Kazuma Okamoto to patch up their infield.

Plus, both the Pirates and Giants are on Marte’s no-trade list, which narrows things down even more.

The Red Sox and Phillies: The Last Logical Fits?

Boston and Philadelphia still look like the most interesting fits on paper. Both clubs missed out on bigger-name infielders, with the Red Sox losing out on Alex Bregman and the Phillies coming up short on Bo Bichette.

For a second, Boston’s pickup of Ranger Suárez sparked talk that they might swap some young pitching for Marte.

Why That Door Is Likely Closed

Hazen’s deadline pretty much slammed that door. Unless Arizona does a complete 180—or someone throws an insane offer their way—those trades just aren’t happening.

What This Means for Arizona in 2026

Barring some wild, unexpected proposal, Ketel Marte looks set to remain the centerpiece of the Diamondbacks’ lineup in 2026.

For a team chasing real, lasting success, having stability at second base feels like a rare luxury. Not many contenders can say they have that.

Sometimes, honestly, the most meaningful move a front office makes is just… not making one.

By holding steady, Mike Hazen shows Arizona believes its best shot at winning includes Ketel Marte right where he is.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Hazen: D’Backs Aren’t Revisiting Ketel Marte Trade Talks