destinations for Ketel Marte

Potential Landing Spots: Analyzing the 5 Best Trade Destinations for Ketel Marte

Ketel Marte, the Arizona Diamondbacks‘ three-time All-Star second baseman, is a prime trade candidate this offseason, with the Diamondbacks reportedly “motivated” to move him. Coming off consecutive strong seasons, including a 2025 campaign where he hit .283 with 28 home runs and 72 RBIs, Marte offers an elite combination of offensive production and defensive stability. His manageable, team-friendly contract (controllable through his age-31 season for a large-market club) and the impending arrival of 10-and-5 rights in mid-April 2026 make a winter trade an attractive option for contending teams.

A deal for Marte would likely require an eye-popping haul, with Arizona targeting top-end, controllable starting pitching in return. Here are the best potential trade destinations for Marte.

Analyzing the Best Trade Destinations for Ketel Marte

 

5. Los Angeles Dodgers

While trading within the division is rare, the Los Angeles Dodgers have a surplus of top prospects and an insatiable appetite for talent. Marte could fit into a versatile middle infield rotation that includes Mookie Betts and other players, offering depth and elite production for a perennial powerhouse.

The Dodgers’ top ranked farm system gives them the assets necessary to woo the Diamondbacks, potentially with a pitching-focused return that Arizona desires. Los Angeles could offer a significant haul of prospects, including immediate help like Alex Freeland or pitching prospects like River Ryan, to make a deal happen.

4. Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers are a team in a position to contend and adding a player of Marte’s caliber would help cement their status as a force in the AL Central. With potential uncertainty at second base depending on Gleyber Torres‘ free agency outcome, Marte offers a proven, long-term solution.

Detroit has the means to take on Marte’s contract and a clear positional need. He would provide an immediate impact in a lineup looking to take the next step. The Tigers would need to assemble a compelling package, likely involving some of their better young players or pitching prospects, to entice the Diamondbacks.

3. New York Mets

The New York Mets have the financial resources and a deep farm system to pull off a blockbuster trade for Marte. A middle infield of Francisco Lindor and Marte would be one of the best in baseball, providing a formidable offensive punch.

New York needs a boost in its lineup, and Marte’s skill set and high on-base capabilities fit well with their offensive approach. The front office has shown a willingness to make big moves to contend. Acquiring Marte would be costly in terms of prospects. Reports suggest a package involving top organizational talent might be necessary, which the Mets have in their system.

2. Boston Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox and their young core are emerging, and adding a middle-of-the-order bat like Marte could accelerate their push for contention. The second base position has been a relative weakness for the Red Sox, and Marte’s presence would immediately fill that hole while providing a valuable veteran presence.

The Red Sox have a strong farm system and financial flexibility after offloading some contracts. Marte fits their timeline and would be a fan favorite at Fenway Park. Boston could offer a package built around a mix of top prospects to satisfy Arizona’s need for young, cost-controlled talent.

1. Philadelphia Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies have consistently been linked to Marte, viewing him as a proven veteran bat to stabilize their lineup and a perfect fit for their “win-now” mentality. While their current second baseman, Bryson Stott, is a solid defender, his offensive production has been inconsistent. Marte would provide a significant power boost and a high on-base percentage, forming a perennial All-Star infield alongside Trea Turner and Bryce Harper.

The Phillies are serious World Series contenders and Marte’s contract is manageable for their market size. He addresses a clear offensive need in the middle of their order. To acquire Marte, the Phillies would likely need to part with significant prospects, possibly including top pitching or middle infield options, as the Diamondbacks are set to demand a high price.

Main Image: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

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