In Washington, Arizona Diamondbacks announced that their second baseman, Ketel Marte, has been placed on the 10-day injured list following an injury during a game against the Washington Nationals. Marte sustained a strained left hamstring on Friday while running the bases and had to leave the game shortly afterwards. The injury happened after Marte hit a deep ball to center field, and as he rounded first heading toward second base, he began to stutter-step before completing a standup double and holding his left hamstring.
According to right fielder Corbin Carroll, the incident dampened the team’s spirits, especially since it occurred so early in the game. Carroll had a stellar performance himself, hitting two home runs and driving in three runs during Arizona’s 6-4 victory. Marte was escorted off the field by the team’s training staff and Garrett Hampson took over his position. In response to Marte’s injury, infielder Tim Tawa was called up from Triple-A Reno to join the team.
Manager Torey Lovullo commented on Marte’s injury, acknowledging it as part of the challenges teams face during the season. Although the timing was not favorable, he expressed confidence in the team’s ability to manage, with players ready to fill in the gap until Marte’s return. It’s noteworthy that Marte has struggled with hamstring issues in the past, also facing similar injuries in 2019, 2021, and 2022.
Just earlier this week, Marte secured a significant contract, earning him $116.5 million through 2031. This six-year agreement includes a player option and features $46 million in deferred payments scheduled to last until 2040. Despite his current setback, Marte has had an impressive start to the season, batting .346 over eight games and consistently reaching base.
Last season, Marte made an outstanding impact, finishing third in the National League MVP voting. He recorded a .292 batting average, a personal best of 36 home runs, and 95 RBIs, underscoring his value to the Diamondbacks. As the team adjusts to his temporary absence, they’ll await his recovery in hopes of continuing their momentum.