After fans piled into Chase Field to collect a Ketel Marte bobblehead on a scorching hot afternoon in downtown Phoenix, they were treated to a stellar performance at the plate from the soon-to-be Diamondbacks’ 2024 All-Star.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Although Marte took a day off from playing in the field, with Blaze Alexander covering second base, he went 3-for-4 out of the leadoff spot.
He started the scoring with an RBI single in the third inning, giving the Diamondbacks a 1-0 lead. Marte added another hit in the fourth, walked in the sixth, and hit a double into left field in the eighth.
Marte is now batting .290 this season.
Postgame, Marte spoke with Jody Jackson on the D-backs’ TV broadcast about his bobblehead and his successful afternoon. He stated, “I am feeling good. I hope everyone here enjoys my bobblehead.” Reflecting on the bat flip from last year’s NLDS, which the bobblehead commemorates, Marte noted, “That was a special moment for me, for my career, and for my family.”
Regarding his performance at the plate, Marte again acknowledged that he is feeling great, “Just trying to do my best out there. I know my team needs me, and I just go out there and compete.”
Marte also spoke about what Zac Gallen’s start meant to the team. Gallen, making his first start since late May, tossed six shutout innings while allowing just one hit. Marte said, “Feeling great. I know Gallen’s good at pitching. I hope he stays healthy. I know what he can do out there, and I am glad he is back.”
The Diamondbacks will look to finish their six-game homestand with a 3-3 record as they wrap things up tomorrow against the Oakland A’s at 1:10 PM.
