PHOENIX — With right-handed pitcher Merrill Kelly returning to the desert and giving the team some stability in the starting rotation, the Arizona Diamondbacks face questions about a Ketel Marte trade.
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Apr 15, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) pitches against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at loanDepot Park. All players wore #42 for Jackie Robinson Day. Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
Kelly has been a cornerstone of the Diamondbacks for nearly seven seasons. At the 2025 trade deadline, the right-hander was traded to the Texas Rangers, where he finished the season.
It was no secret that both parties wanted a reunion and Kelly’s return provides the D-Backs with added stability in the starting rotation.
That raises a key question: what does Kelly’s re-signing mean for a potential Marte trade?
May 24, 2025; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (29) pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
Reports have surfaced of teams interested in the All-Star pushing for key starting pitchers in return. Arizona’s most pressing need has been pitching, making Marte a highly valuable asset.
With Kelly back in Arizona, does that reduce the likelihood of a Marte trade? According to MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert, it’s not the case.
Jun 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second base Ketel Marte (4) reacts after striking out against the Miami Marlins at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks still face questions about roster depth, particularly at first base and in center field. A Marte trade could provide the team with leverage to address those needs, though potential trade packages may shift now that Kelly’s return stabilizes the rotation.
D-backs, RHP Merrill Kelly agree to 2-year deal, per multiple reports including MLB’s @Feinsand. pic.twitter.com/U9HGDpNr34
— MLB (@MLB) December 14, 2025
While Kelly’s re-signing gives the D-Backs breathing room, it doesn’t keep the team from continuing to weigh Marte’s trade value in the market.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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