Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Ketel Marte appears to be nearing a return from the Injured List.
An end to the uncertainty surrounding Ketel Marte could be approaching, with the Arizona Diamondbacks expecting their star second baseman to potentially return early next week.
Arizona manager Torey Lovullo indicated Monday that Marte is progressing toward activation from the 10-day Injured List. The veteran infielder has already been cleared to resume batting practice, creating a path for him to potentially return when the Diamondbacks begin their upcoming home series against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Marte recently shared a video on Instagram showing himself working out at Salt River Fields, providing another indication that his rehabilitation is moving forward.
The 32-year-old was placed on the Injured List on Aug. 20 after an MRI revealed inflammation in his left knee. The injury came after Marte had already missed a game because of knee soreness before returning to the lineup the following day.
The situation surrounding Marte has been complicated by his absence from the team earlier in the month. He was initially placed on the restricted list after failing to report to Fenway Park for Arizona's series opener against the Boston Red Sox. At the time, the organization described the matter as a personal issue.
Marte later underwent further medical evaluation, which uncovered the inflammation in his knee and ultimately led to his placement on the Injured List.
The Diamondbacks also met with Marte and his agent when he was placed on the Injured List. The organization has since given him room to work through the situation while focusing on his recovery.
Additional attention came when Marte appeared in social media posts at a casino in Scottsdale during Arizona's series against the Cincinnati Reds. Because players rehabbing from injuries are not required to attend games, the appearance did not violate team rules. Still, it became another talking point surrounding the veteran's absence.
Now, the focus is shifting toward Marte's return to the field.
Arizona entered Tuesday's games two games behind the San Diego Padres for the final National League Wild Card position, making the timing of Marte's potential comeback particularly important. His presence would provide the Diamondbacks with an experienced middle-of-the-order bat as they attempt to remain in the postseason race.
This season has been a down year for the switch-hitter, with a .249/.314/.446 line and an OPS+ of 107, while he has remained slightly above league average in offensive production. The Diamondbacks certainly hope his added bat to the lineup gives them an edge that allows them to make the postseason.
For now, Arizona appears willing to let Marte determine the pace of his return while the club concentrates on getting him healthy enough to contribute again.
