Phillies reportedly have 'checked in' on $105 million Diamondbacks All-Star infielder originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia Phillies are no strangers to big moves, and after back-to-back NLDS disappointments, Dave Dombrowski might feel the heat to make such a splash.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile free agency is a great opportunity to land talent, the trade market is another area where Dombrowski could add to this team. If they do explore trade options, an Arizona Diamondbacks infielder would be a great option.
And according to MLB insider Jon Morosi, the Phillies have reportedly checked in with the Diamondbacks about acquiring that three-time All-Star infielder. That player? $105 million infielder Ketel Marte.
MLB insider reports Phillies have 'checked in' with Diamondbacks on Ketel Marte
"I think it's at least a 50-50 chance he could be moved," Morosi reports. "The Diamondbacks are actively listening to Ketel Marte. Among the teams that have checked in, the Phillies and Blue Jays. Those teams are not on Marte's no-trade clause list."
Marte would be an incredible addition to the Phillies' lineup. He's 32 years old and would take over at second base for Bryson Stott. While the fan-favorite second baseman might be out of a role, he could be a centerpiece of a trade to land the All-Star infielder.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWhile there might be a slight downgrade defensively from Stott to Marte, there would be a massive upgrade on offense. Marte is coming off another strong season with the Diamondbacks.
More: Phillies linked to Ketel Marte for potential blockbuster offseason trade
In 126 games, Marte had 136 hits, 28 doubles, 87 runs scored, 28 home runs, 72 RBIs, 64 walks, and only 83 strikeouts. His .283 batting average and .893 OPS are very strong numbers, and would be a big upgrade over Stott's presence at the plate.
Marte is signed through the 2030 season on a $105 million deal, along with a 2031 player option. Even if he declines that option, Marte would be around for the next five seasons and could provide elite offense and strong defense from second base.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAnd as Morosi said, the Phillies are not one of the teams Marte has a no-trade clause for. Meaning, the Phillies can trade for Marte without his intervention.
While the Phillies would have to compete with the Toronto Blue Jays, among other teams, for Marte, if they could find a way to bring the switch-hitting second baseman to Philadelphia at a reasonable cost, it would be a no-brainer.
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