The Philadelphia Phillies face pressure to make impactful changes this offseason, but roster flexibility is limited. The team appears set to bring back veteran stars Kyle Schwarber and JT Realmuto, who would join Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, Zack Wheeler, and Aaron Nola to form a largely familiar core.
If the Phillies want a noticeably different lineup next season, only a few positions are realistically available for upgrades. This likely explains their interest in a potential superstar replacement for second baseman Bryson Stott.
“Both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Toronto Blue Jays have shown interest in Ketel Marte,” reported MLB insider Francys Romero.
Marte, a three-time All-Star with the Arizona Diamondbacks, has emerged on the trade market following reported tensions with teammates last season. While more expensive than Stott, his six-year, $116 million contract is considered a strong value given his offensive production.
MLB Network’s Jon Morosi added another key point about Marte’s trade potential. “A Ketel Marte trade is certainly possible as we kick off the Winter Meetings, given the robust interest in him. The Phillies are not on his limited no-trade list, so they could acquire him without his permission—an important factor to consider,” Morosi said.
While Marte could block trades to other teams, the Phillies wouldn’t face that obstacle. If the Diamondbacks find Philadelphia’s offer appealing, they could move Marte without needing his approval.
However, acquiring the star infielder wouldn’t come cheap. The Phillies would likely have to include one of their top prospects, potentially even Andrew Painter, who has been largely untouchable to this point.