BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox, once considered among the leading candidates to acquire Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte, appear to be shifting away from a trade with the Snakes.
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Apr 29, 2021; Arlington, Texas, USA; A view of the Boston Red Sox logo and a field bag during batting practice before the game between the Texas Rangers and the Boston Red Sox at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, Boston has acquired catcher Willson Contreras in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, sending three players in return. The move addresses a key Red Sox need for power in the middle of the lineup, with Contreras offering both slug and infield versatility.
The deal appears to have direct implications for Marte’s trade market.
While it does not change the overall likelihood that Arizona could still move the All-Star infielder, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported that Boston is now expected to withdraw from trade discussions for Marte. The Red Sox had been viewed as the most engaged team, making their exit notable.
The Red Sox, who will be responsible for $33.5 million of the $41.5 million owed to Willson Contreras, are now expected to end trade talks with the Arizona Diamondbacks for 2B Ketel Marte.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 22, 2025
Arizona is expected to continue listening to offers as it evaluates roster needs ahead of the 2026 season.
Aug 11, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks shortstop Geraldo Perdomo (2) and second baseman Ketel Marte (4) and third baseman Blaze Alexander (9) and first baseman Tyler Locklear (28) during the game between the Texas Rangers and the Arizona Diamondbacks at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The development offers some optimism for fans hoping Marte remains in the desert. A cornerstone of the franchise, Marte has been central to the Diamondbacks’ recent success and veteran presence alongside a core of young players. Trading him would risk disrupting the chemistry that has developed as the club pushes toward contention.
Arizona is also testing the market on two-time World Series champion Alex Bregman. It raises broader questions about the club’s direction and whether he could fit on the team without having to move a player of Marte’s caliber.
Still, there are areas the Snakes need to address and Marte’s All-Star resume will be used as leverage to get the best deal possible, even if it means trading a franchise star.
Jun 16, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second base Ketel Marte (4) reacts after hitting a single against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
The Diamondbacks remain open to discussions, but Boston’s shift removes one potential team Marte could play for next year.
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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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