The Arizona Diamondbacks are exploring trade options to bolster their pitching staff ahead of the 2026 season, with All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte emerging as a key figure in discussions. General Manager Mike Hazen has indicated openness to deals involving prospects, but trading Marte remains possible yet unlikely without a blockbuster return. The team's recent pitching injuries and free-agent losses underscore the need for significant offseason moves.
The GM Meetings, which concluded on Thursday, marked the beginning of the Hot Stove season, where teams assess the trade market. For the Diamondbacks, conversations centered on whether they might trade All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte, prompting numerous fan inquiries.
The team aims to compete for a postseason spot in 2026 but faces pitching challenges after two seasons of offensive strength undermined by staff struggles. Injuries to starter Corbin Burnes and co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez contributed significantly. With Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly entering free agency, Arizona needs at least two starters to complement Eduardo Rodriguez, Ryne Nelson, and Brandon Pfaadt. Burnes, signed to a six-year, $210 million contract last season, could return midseason, but reliability is uncertain.
Last year's Opening Day payroll reached a record $195 million, but 2026 commitments sit around $145 million, suggesting a potentially lower budget. Ownership has shown willingness to make exceptions previously. Free agency for quality starting pitching is expensive, making trades essential.
Hazen expressed openness to trading from the team's strong prospect pool, including shortstop Jordan Lawlar and outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt, MLB Pipeline's No. 1 prospect. "I might," Hazen said before the meetings. "I don’t want to do that, but I think at some point if I’m going to get somebody of value, I’m going to have to give up [value]. It just is what it is. I don’t know what the market is going to look like trade-wise."
Prospects may not suffice for top pitching, however. Among position players, only outfielder Corbin Carroll, shortstop Geraldo Perdomo, and catcher Gabriel Moreno rival Marte's trade value; outfielders Jake McCarthy and Alek Thomas are likely to move but won't fetch elite arms.
Marte, in his prime, signed a $91 million extension in April running through 2030 with a 2031 player option. His superstar status on an affordable deal makes him attractive, but a trade is deemed possible, not likely, due to the difficulty of securing a blockbuster package.