If the Arizona Diamondbacks are going to return to October baseball, they may need their most established position player to look more like himself.

For years, regardless of team results, Ketel Marte has been one of the organization’s most dependable players and a consistent source of production.

That reputation has helped make him one of the defining players of the franchise’s current era.

A three-time All-Star, Marte is approaching another milestone as he is likely to pass longtime outfielder Luis Gonzalez in total games played with the Diamondbacks.

But even players with that level of history are not immune to criticism.

In recent years, reports have surfaced suggesting frustration within the organization regarding Marte’s availability, specifically surrounding games he did not play despite being healthy.

Those concerns reportedly became significant enough last offseason that Arizona explored trade possibilities involving the veteran infielder.

Ultimately, no deal materialized, and Marte remained with the franchise he has called home since 2017.

This season has added another complicated layer to the discussion.

The 32-year-old is slashing .265/.319/.461 with 13 home runs and 47 RBIs in 76 games.

For many players, that would represent a strong season.

For Marte, expectations are different.

His recent standards have elevated the baseline.

As a result, production that would be considered successful elsewhere feels underwhelming by comparison.

Arizona’s overall performance has mirrored some of that decline.

The Diamondbacks remain in the postseason picture, sitting only two games behind the St. Louis Cardinals for the final National League Wild Card spot.

However, their 41-39 record and minus-20 run differential reflect a team still searching for consistency.

Marte is not carrying that burden alone.

His double-play partner, Geraldo Perdomo, has also experienced a difficult season.

Perdomo is hitting .233 with four home runs and 27 RBIs in 77 games after producing a .290 average with 20 home runs and 100 RBIs across 161 games last year.

Still, leadership changes expectations.

Marte occupies a different place within the organization.

At 32 years old, natural questions arise whenever production changes.

Outside of some plate discipline concerns, however, there is little evidence suggesting major decline.

Whether trade speculation affected him or not, Arizona still has reason to believe better stretches remain ahead.

Beyond the numbers, Marte’s value has always extended into qualities that shape a team.

One of his biggest strengths is versatility.

He has consistently adapted to different expectations and responsibilities.

He also brings calm and stability during difficult periods.

Another defining quality is leadership through example.

When Marte performs at his usual level, the entire lineup often looks more complete.

Those traits remain essential if Arizona hopes to become a more dangerous team during the second half of the season.

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