O’s talk to D-backs about Marte; no deal imminent (source)
The Baltimore Orioles are quietly exploring a trade for Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte, according to a report from MLB.com. While no deal is expected to materialize immediately, the Orioles have engaged in preliminary discussions with the D-backs about acquiring the three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger winner.
Marte, a career .277 hitter with 193 home runs and an .815 OPS over 1,371 games, has spent his entire 12-year MLB career in Arizona but could be open to a move given his 10-and-5 rights, allowing him to veto any trade proposal. His 2026 season saw a slight dip in production, with a .249 average, 22 home runs, and 76 RBIs in 141 games, though he remains a high-impact player with four guaranteed seasons left on his six-year, $116.5 million contract, plus an $11.5 million player option for 2031.
The Orioles, under new ownership since March 2024, have shown a willingness to invest heavily, as seen in their signing of Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million deal last offseason. However, integrating Marte into Baltimore’s crowded infield—where Jackson Holliday, Jordan Westburg, and Blaze Alexander also play—would require significant roster adjustments, potentially shifting infielders to the outfield.
Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen has indicated openness to restructuring the roster, though landing Marte may require a substantial offer given his star status and contract terms.
