Diamondbacks’ Marte Spotted at Casino While Team Plays Without Him

Arizona Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte’s tumultuous week took yet another unexpected turn Friday when fans spotted him at Talking Stick Resort casino while his team faced the Cincinnati Reds at Chase Field. Video footage showed the 32-year-old at gaming tables as the game unfolded on nearby television screens, raising fresh questions about his status with the club.

Marte’s erratic behavior began Monday when he failed to appear at Fenway Park for a matchup against the Boston Red Sox, resulting in his removal from the lineup minutes before game time. The Diamondbacks subsequently placed him on the restricted list, and he had minimal contact with the organization until Thursday, when he and team officials held an extended meeting.

Following the Thursday session, Arizona moved Marte to the injured list, citing left knee inflammation as the reason. Manager Torey Lovullo remained noncommittal about the casino visit after his team’s 9-0 victory over Cincinnati, stating that Marte was entitled to his personal time provided he reported to the facility and completed required work at Salt River.

Relief pitcher Kevin Ginkel acknowledged the situation’s toll on the roster, telling reporters before the game that the team needs Marte present for its postseason aspirations. The Diamondbacks currently sit one game behind the San Diego Padres for the final National League Wild Card spot with a 68-61 record, while Cincinnati stands at 61-68.

Marte, a 10-year franchise fixture and one of the organization’s all-time greats, has compiled a .249 batting average with 21 home runs and 67 RBIs across 118 games this season. The true nature of his absence remains publicly unexplained.