Reds doubts about Ketel Marte trade proved valid after D-backs demands come to light

The Arizona Diamondbacks haven't necessarily been "shopping" Ketel Marte this offseason, but if another team meets the asking price, the D-backs won't hesitate to the trade their All-Star second baseman. The Cincinnati Reds have been among the teams who've been linked to Marte throughout the offseason, but with the asking price now revealed, fans will understand why they said, no.

The Seattle Mariners have also been in contact with the Diamondbacks, and Seattle Times reporter Ryan Divish recently revealed the type of trade package Arizona is looking for in exchange for Marte.

According to Divish, multiple reports have stated that D-backs GM Mike Hazen is asking for a lot in a trade for Marte, including an established MLB starting pitcher and multiple high-level prospects. Throw in the fact that Marte, 32, is also owed over $100 through 2030, and it's quite clear why those trade talks between the Reds and Diamondbacks have cooled.

Reds doubts about Ketel Marte trade proved valid after Diamondbacks demands revealed

Marte enjoyed an All-Star season in 2024 and finished 3rd in the race for the NL MVP. He followed that up this past season by hitting .283/.376/.517 with 28 home runs and 72 RBI. His production and value — plus a relatively inexpensive contract — have many wondering why Arizona is even considering trading their star infielder.

Some clubhouse concerns arose last summer that have obviously raised some red flags. Marte is also set to receive 10-5 rights shortly after the 2026 season gets underway, meaning he'll be able to void any potential trade in the future. In other words, if the D-backs ever want to trade Marte, now's the time.

Had the Reds followed through with a trade and actually met the Diamondbacks' demands, one would have image that Nick Lodolo, Chase Burns, or Andrew Abbott would've been part of any deal. While it's safe to assume that top prospects Alfredo Duno and Sal Stewart would've been deemed off limits, prospects like Rhett Lowder, Tyson Lewis, and Cam Collier may have been required in order to seal the deal.

Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall has cited the team's desire to add offense this season, and Marte could certainly provide some pop in the middle of the batting order. But if that's the type of trade package the D-backs are seeking, Cincinnati was right to walk away.