The Arizona Diamondbacks have an important decision to make this offseason involving one of the most talented players on their roster.

Ketel Marte could become a trade candidate after a disappointing 2026 season and another year without a postseason appearance for Arizona. The Diamondbacks explored the possibility of trading Marte last winter but were unable to find a deal that made sense.

The situation became more complicated in August when Marte failed to report for the beginning of Arizona’s series at Fenway Park. The organization initially placed him on the restricted list before moving him to the injured list after he underwent testing on his left knee.

Marte returned before the end of August and finished the season, but the incident renewed concerns surrounding his relationship with the organization.

Marte has previously dealt with frustration from those within the Diamondbacks organization regarding unexplained absences. That history could become an important factor as Arizona evaluates its roster following a third consecutive season without reaching the playoffs.

Manager Torey Lovullo, who recently agreed to a new two-year contract, is also expected to approach his relationship with Marte differently if the veteran remains with the club.

General manager Mike Hazen has emphasized that Lovullo’s return is separate from the organization's decision regarding Marte. However, Hazen also acknowledged that Arizona needs to determine whether its current core is capable of taking the next step.

The Diamondbacks have remained competitive with their current group, but they have not returned to the postseason since 2023. That could force the front office to consider significant changes this winter.

Trading Marte would not be simple. The switch-hitter has more than 10 years of major league service and has spent at least five seasons with Arizona, giving him full no-trade protection.

His contract is another consideration. Marte is signed through 2031 for $87.5 million, including just $12 million for the upcoming season. For a player with his offensive potential, that salary could make him attractive to other clubs despite the concerns surrounding his future.

Marte also struggled to match his previous production in 2026. He finished with a .249/.316/.432 slash line and 22 home runs over 624 plate appearances.

Those numbers were a significant decline from his .279/.360/.498 performance between 2021 and 2025. Although Marte still provided power from the middle infield, his batting average and on-base percentage fell considerably.

Arizona already expects its payroll to decline next season, creating another factor in the Marte discussion. The contracts of several players are coming off the books, but the Diamondbacks still have clear needs throughout the roster.

The club needs help in the starting rotation and bullpen while also looking for an upgrade at first base. Moving Marte would create additional financial flexibility, potentially allowing Arizona to redirect resources toward those areas.

At the same time, trading a player with Marte’s offensive ceiling would create another major hole.

Marte will turn 33 next week, meaning Arizona must determine whether his remaining years represent an opportunity or a risk. His contract, no-trade rights and recent clubhouse concerns could make a trade difficult, but his track record ensures that the possibility will remain part of the Diamondbacks’ offseason evaluation.

With Arizona searching for answers after three straight missed postseasons, Marte’s future could become one of the organization’s most consequential decisions this winter.