Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte spotted at casino while on injured list

The Arizona Diamondbacks faced another development involving star Ketel Marte after the injured second baseman was reportedly spotted at a Phoenix-area casino Friday night while the Diamondbacks hosted the Cincinnati Reds.

Marte moved from the restricted list to the 10-day injured list Thursday after an MRI revealed inflammation in his left knee. The three-time All-Star missed Monday’s game at Fenway Park without reporting to the team. The club then placed the veteran on the restricted list. Manager Torey Lovullo said communication with the veteran had been limited before Marte met Thursday with Lovullo, general manager Mike Hazen, and his agent.

SleeperMLB posted a photo Saturday on X, formerly Twitter, showing Marte inside a casino during Friday’s game.

“Ketel Marte was spotted at a casino last night during the Diamondbacks game.
Arizona is 1 game back from a WC spot… and their star player… is gambling.
Marte was recently placed on the IL with a knee injury.”

Ketel Marte was spotted at a casino last night during the Diamondbacks game.

Arizona is 1 game back from a WC spot… and their star player… is gambling.

Marte was recently placed on the IL with a knee injury. pic.twitter.com/dWqgKiB2RR

— SleeperMLB (@SleeperMLB) August 22, 2026

Local reports identified the location as Talking Stick Resort, while Arizona Sports reported Marte spent four hours at the casino. Lovullo said he was unaware of the report following the Diamondbacks’ 9-0 shutout win.

The manager explained that injured players may leave after completing their medical and rehabilitation work. Marte attended training at Salt River Fields Friday morning.

Lovullo did not suggest the reported visit violated team rules. He said Marte could spend his remaining time as he wished, provided he reported the next morning and completed his assigned work.

The timing drew attention because the Diamondbacks entered Saturday at 68-61, one game behind the San Diego Padres for the final National League Wild Card position. Marte’s absence removes one of Arizona’s most important hitters during a consequential stretch.

The casino report extends an eventful week for Marte, but it does not establish misconduct. For the Diamondbacks, the priority remains his recovery and eventual return as the team continues its postseason pursuit.

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