The Arizona Diamondbacks must confront another offseason without postseason baseball after being eliminated from contention in Game 162 of the regular season against the Philadelphia Phillies.

With a potential lockout looming, Arizona faces several difficult decisions, including some that may not be entirely under the team’s control.

The Diamondbacks explored trading Ketel Marte last offseason but ultimately decided against making a deal.

That seemingly should have ended the possibility of a trade because Marte earned full 10-and-5 rights this season. However, the second baseman was unexpectedly absent during the season for the second consecutive year, creating additional external noise and unrest.

Arizona trading Marte does not appear especially likely. He could also veto any proposed deal.

Nevertheless, the Diamondbacks must determine how they intend to handle Marte moving forward. 

Manager Torey Lovullo plans to manage the veteran differently following a difficult season.

Lovullo indicated that he will no longer shield Marte from questions surrounding his decisions if the second baseman returns in 2027. Instead, the manager intends to place more responsibility on Marte and expects him 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.

His remarks followed a year 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 must accept responsibility for his future decisions. The manager believes he can no longer protect him in the same manner and that players must eventually 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 him 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 an important franchise milestone late in the season by becoming the Diamondbacks’ all-time leader in games played.

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

Marte’s talent, experience and history with the Diamondbacks make him difficult to replace. He has spent enough time with the team to understand the expectations attached to his role and the influence his conduct carries inside the clubhouse.

His next challenge extends beyond his performance. Marte must communicate clearly, accept greater accountability and eliminate uncertainty surrounding his availability.

Arizona has invested heavily in him, and Lovullo’s new approach places the responsibility directly on Marte to demonstrate that the relationship can remain productive.