Arizona Diamondbacks fans expressed their displeasure with infielder Ketel Marte during his first game back with the team on Monday, August 31, 2026, following a two-week absence. Marte was largely met with boos from the home crowd at Chase Field when he stepped up to the plate for his initial at-bat against the Philadelphia Phillies, and again when he grounded out.
Marte addressed reporters for the first time about the incident, describing his decision not to show up for a game in Boston as a "moment of frustration." He acknowledged his failure to appear for the game. "That morning I woke up, my body was in pain and I just couldn't react," Marte stated. "No one made the decision for me. I'm the one who made the decision to not show up."
Earlier, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo had expressed some concern about the potential fan reception for Marte. "He's an emotional kid. He's a very emotional kid," Lovullo told reporters before the game. He also defended Marte, suggesting the player has a strong appreciation for the Arizona fanbase. "I know that he loves the fans," Lovullo said. "I know that he picks up on their energy. He pays attention to what the fans say and do, and love and support of him."
Marte's absence led to the Diamondbacks briefly placing him on the restricted list. The infielder's return to play marks the end of a drama-filled period for the player and the team.