If there is anyone responsible for the Arizona Diamondbacks once again fighting for a postseason spot, it is Ketel Marte. The Dominican is having the best season of his career and there is already a date set for him to return to the lineup.
Marte, who is recovering from a sprained ankle, could return during the weekend series in Houston, manager Torey Lovullo said, for a series with the Astros that will be key to Arizona’s aspirations.
Marte suffered the injury six days ago and has been a notable absence from the lineup for the Cascabeles, a team that is looking to return to the World Series this year after falling last year.
“I think Ketel knows his body very well – he is sharing good news, because he believes he is showing signs of being able to stand up left-footed and generate pressure, without worrying about possible collateral damage.”explained the leader. “I think it’s very close.”
The 30-year-old Marte was instrumental in the team’s resurgence from the desert thanks to his .298/.370/.560 OPS with a .930, 30 homers, 20 doubles and 81 RBIs. He’s sure to get his first career MVP vote, although he’s in a tough race against candidates like Shohei Ohtani, Marcell Ozuna and Francisco Lindor.
