ATLANTA – Ketel Marte leaving Friday’s game against the Atlanta Braves in the second inning is the kind of moment that can change the feeling around an entire season. After a ground ball hit towards Marte’s way, which saw him bobble the grab, he left with left knee soreness.
Ketel Marte leaves Friday nights game with injury:
Ketel Marte has left Friday night’s matchup with left knee soreness. More updates to come.#Dbacks #MLB
— Ben Bliklen (@benbliklen) August 14, 2026
The Diamondbacks do not know whether this is a minor precaution or something more serious. But the concern is obvious as Arizona cannot afford to lose one of the most important pieces of its lineup with the postseason race tightening.
Jun 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte in the first inning against the Minnesota Twins at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Marte has been one of the Diamondbacks’ most dangerous offensive players, and his impact goes beyond his production in the batter’s box. He provides lineup stability, forces opposing pitchers to navigate another difficult at-bat and gives Arizona a veteran presence in the middle of a team attempting to stay in the National League playoff picture.
Jun 20, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) runs back to the dugout against the Minnesota Twins in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
That importance was on display just days ago. Marte homered against Colorado on Tuesday and collected two hits and an RBI in Wednesday’s loss, continuing to contribute while Arizona battled for position in the wild-card race. That is why his second-inning departure feels different.
May 23, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) watches after hitting a two run home run against Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen (24) during the fourth inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Anna Carrington-Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks have enough talent to survive individual injuries, but replacing Marte’s overall impact is another challenge entirely. If this proves to be minor, Arizona can breathe again. If it becomes an extended absence, the organization may suddenly face one of its biggest problems of the season.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
