PHOENIX — The MLB trade deadline is quickly approaching, and the Arizona Diamondbacks are once again in the middle of the rumors that surround the annual summer shake-up.
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Jun 23, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (12) hits a two run single against the St. Louis Cardinals during the ninth inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images
The latest report from USA Today’s Bob Nightengale suggests one Diamondbacks outfielder has drawn trade interest, while another star is expected to exercise his no-trade rights.
One of the biggest storylines of the offseason was whether Arizona would trade All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte. The front office listened to offers, and while there was speculation that Marte could be moved, talks eventually faded, and he was pulled from the trade market ahead of spring training.
Jul 6, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) celebrates in the dugout after scoring in the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Chadd Cady-Imagn Images
Since then, the second baseman has gained 10-and-5 rights, giving him the ability to veto any trade. According to Nightengale, Marte is expected to exercise that right, effectively making him unavailable despite interest from other clubs.
Keeping Marte gives the D-Backs a productive power bat in the middle of its lineup as it looks to remain in the postseason race. While his numbers aren’t quite what he’s accustomed to producing this season, his timely hitting and ability to get on base have been instrumental in keeping the club within reach of a Wild Card spot.
Aug 2, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) celebrates with left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (12) after hitting a solo home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the first inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images
While Marte appears unlikely to go anywhere, left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has emerged as a potential trade candidate. Nightengale reports that the Philadelphia Phillies are interested in Gurriel as they search for a right-handed-hitting outfielder.
Gurriel’s offensive numbers have dipped this season after opening the year on the injured list while recovering from an ACL injury and hamstring strain. He is batting .222 with two home runs, 20 RBIs and a .565 OPS.
Jul 4, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) makes the play against the Milwaukee Brewers in the ninth inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Still, his postseason experience, defensive versatility and track record as a productive right-handed bat could make him appealing to clubs looking for outfield depth. Gurriel also is in the final year of his three-year, $42 million contract, which includes a 2027 club option, giving the Diamondbacks additional incentive to move him if it can receive a worthwhile return.
Trade rumors are never guarantees, but offer a preview on how front offices value players and evaluate their rosters.
Around the basepaths, per @BNightengale:
• Ketel Marte expected to veto all trades
• Josh Hader isn’t available in trade talks
• Reds are receiving plenty of interest in Spencer Steer
• Lourdes Gurriel Jr among Phillies’ possible trade targets
• Royals aren’t planning on… pic.twitter.com/nBVP1RxBLE— Underdog MLB (@UnderdogMLB) July 12, 2026
Whether Arizona becomes a buyer, a seller or somewhere in between, the decisions made before the deadline won’t just shape the remainder of the 2026 season — they have a lasting impact on the club’s future.
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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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