Ketel Marte Thriller Deepens as Diamondbacks Supervisor Admits He Doesn’t Know Why Star Is Away

The scenario surrounding Ketel Marte stays unclear, with Arizona Diamondbacks supervisor Torey Lovullo admitting Tuesday that he doesn’t know precisely why his star participant is away from the staff.

Ketel Marte’s Absence Raises More Questions

Marte was positioned on the restricted checklist Monday after lacking Arizona’s sport towards the Boston Red Sox.

The Diamondbacks described his absence as a “personal issue.” He had been anticipated to play however didn’t arrive at Fenway Park, the NY Post reported.

The uncertainty continued Tuesday. Marte is reportedly heading again to Phoenix for an MRI on his left knee, in line with the Arizona Republic. However, Lovullo mentioned he couldn’t affirm that the take a look at was the explanation Marte left the staff.

“I was told” that Marte went again to Phoenix for knee testing, Lovullo informed reporters. He then added, “I don’t know that for sure.”

Marte had skilled soreness in his left knee throughout Arizona’s sequence towards the Atlanta Braves over the weekend. He left one sport due to the issue however returned to the lineup Sunday earlier than touring with the Diamondbacks to Boston.

Lovullo mentioned he had tried to contact Marte however had not spoken with him Tuesday. The supervisor admitted he was “a little bit” stunned that Marte had not reached out.

Torey Lovullo Gets Emotional

The most emotional second got here when Lovullo spoke about his relationship with Marte. Rather than specializing in baseball, the supervisor burdened that he wished his participant to know he had help.

“He and I have a very strong relationship, maybe like a father/son relationship,” Lovullo mentioned. “I just want to be available to him. He knows I’m available. When he’s ready, he’ll reach out.”

Lovullo had additionally addressed Marte’s absence after Monday’s 11-1 loss to Boston.

According to ClutchPoints, he appeared emotional whereas discussing the scenario and made clear that the staff wished to respect Marte’s privateness.

“We want to keep that private,” Lovullo mentioned. “I love him, and I care for him. He’ll be okay.”

The Diamondbacks haven’t offered extra particulars concerning the private matter. Shortstop Geraldo Perdomo additionally mentioned he didn’t know what was occurring. He informed the Arizona Republic that he solely messaged Marte to ask about his knee.

Marte stays a key a part of Arizona’s lineup. The three-time All-Star is batting .249 with 21 dwelling runs and 67 RBIs this season.

Lovullo mentioned the Diamondbacks hope to have him again in some unspecified time in the future this season, calling him “one of the best players in the National League.”