Torey Lovullo plans to manage Ketel Marte differently following a difficult season for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The manager indicated that he will no longer protect the veteran second baseman from questions surrounding his decisions if Marte returns in 2027. Instead, Lovullo intends to place greater responsibility on him and expects the infielder to advocate for himself.

Lovullo made those comments after agreeing to a two-year contract that will keep him with Arizona through the 2028 season.

The Diamondbacks finished 86-76 and missed the postseason despite owning the best record among every MLB team that failed to qualify for October.

Arizona ended the season two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies for the last National League Wild Card spot.

Lovullo’s comments followed a season in which Marte managed a left knee issue and faced scrutiny because of a controversial absence from the team.

According to John Gambadoro from Arizona Sports, Lovullo explained that Marte’s future decisions will be his responsibility. The manager can no longer continue shielding him in the same manner and believes players eventually must speak for themselves.

“The decisions you make are going to be on you now. I am going to eliminate protecting you the way I have. I can’t do that anymore. At a certain point, I have to allow them (players) to advocate for themselves,” Lovullo said.

The situation began Aug. 17, when Marte did not report to Fenway Park for Arizona’s game against the Boston Red Sox.

The Diamondbacks placed Marte on the restricted list before transferring him to the 10-day Injured List after an MRI revealed inflammation in his left knee.

Marte received an injection and returned from the Injured List on Aug. 31.

The 32-year-old hit .249 with 22 home runs, 76 RBIs and a .748 OPS in 141 games.

Marte also reached a major franchise milestone late in the season by becoming the Diamondbacks’ all-time leader in games played.

He remains under contract through the 2030 season and holds a player option for 2031. That agreement represents a long-term commitment from Arizona to its three-time All-Star.

The Diamondbacks’ disappointing finish makes Marte’s future one of their most important offseason storylines. Lovullo’s return provides managerial stability, but his comments establish that he expects greater accountability from his veteran infielder.

Marte possesses the experience, talent and standing within the organization to accept that responsibility. As the longest-serving player in franchise history, he understands Arizona’s expectations and carries considerable influence inside the clubhouse.

His versatility as a hitter allows him to produce in different situations, while his ability to control at-bats can provide stability near the top of the lineup.

Marte also brings confidence and familiarity with pressure. However, leadership requires more than performance. It involves communication, availability and accepting responsibility when decisions create questions.

Lovullo’s changed approach places that obligation directly on Marte. The manager will continue supporting him, but the veteran must explain his own choices and demonstrate that Arizona’s long-term confidence in him remains justified.