PHOENIX — Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star Ketel Marte took responsibility for how he handled his recent absence, addressing everyone he affected except for one group: the fans.
Aug 8, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) looks off to the field against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Anna Carrington-Imagn Images
Marte spoke to the media Monday afternoon ahead of the club’s three-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies, acknowledging he could have handled the situation differently after failing to show up for the team’s game against the Boston Red Sox on Aug. 17.
His comments appeared to focus on repairing relationships inside the clubhouse and with the staff. He specifically acknowledged the impact of his actions on manager Torey Lovullo and his teammates, accepting responsibility for the lack of communication that created frustration throughout the organization.
Aug 11, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Ketel Marte (4) throws across the infield in the ninth inning of a game against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images
However, when a reporter asked him if he had a message for the D-Backs faithful following his absence, Marte simply shook his head no.
That prompted a flurry of reactions online, many of which expressed disappointment.
Had 2 weeks to come up with a solid answer to a predictable softball question. Yikes.
Better absolutely rake the last 24 games, dude. https://t.co/1RPAMMZTe0
— Scott Howard (@ScottHoward42) August 31, 2026
Torey gives us no guarantee this won’t happen again, and Ketel couldn’t even slam down the perfect lob to say he’s excited to play again.
The PR handling has been a nightmare. Whatever happens behind closed doors is one thing, but some outside reassurance would’ve been nice. https://t.co/CS06iik0L4
— George Lund (@GLundMedia) August 31, 2026
I mean yall keep saying front office Arizona media like what do you want me to do with this BS here ? Lol https://t.co/l6sSf9E2wI
— Edin Matinjanin (@EMatinjanin) August 31, 2026
Might be a controversial opinion of my own but I don’t think fans should feel entitled to apologies, comments, or reactions from pro athletes. Yes you pay money for games, merchandise, etc but that’s your choice. They don’t work for you lol https://t.co/YB5kj48n6p
— Austin Parent (@austinparent_05) August 31, 2026
This signals that he would give a list for a trade. But, as a fan. It’s pointless to trade Ketel. His worse full year in a while. Wrong side of 30. Clearly dealing with mental health. I would ride out the contract for two years. Maybe trade him at the back end. #dbacks https://t.co/hJGYVje5Bb
— elgallo4978 (@_Hysterik_) August 31, 2026
While the fan base has been divided since the situation began, with feelings toward the second baseman ranging from frustration to sympathy, the lack of a message from Marte to those who support the team stood out.
Fans are never shy about expressing their thoughts and feelings about their favorite teams, especially when it comes to sudden situations like this. Perhaps the answer Marte gave was the best one he felt he could offer at the time, choosing to let his actions carry more weight than his words.
Fans stand and cheer as Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run at Chase Field. © Owen Ziliak/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Or maybe Marte is still processing what has happened and needs more time to mend that relationship, believing he needs to address his teammates first and foremost.
Either way, the All-Star has made it clear that repairing things with his team comes first.
The accountability is there. Now, some fans may be waiting to see if that accountability eventually extends to them.
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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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