Ketel Marte could return to Diamondbacks roughly 2 weeks after strange disappearance

Arizona Diamondbacks anticipate Ketel Marte will rejoin their lineup within the next two weeks, following his unexpected absence from the team before a game in Boston. Manager Torey Lovullo informed that the second baseman is set to return for a home series against the Philadelphia Phillies, commencing on August 31. Initially placed on the restricted list due to his disappearance, Marte later transitioned to the 10-day injured list with mild inflammation in his left knee.

Lovullo expressed confidence in Marte's return, stating he is making progress in batting practice and hitting coach Joe Mather is optimistic about his condition.

Marte, a 32-year-old three-time All-Star, has yet to inform his teammates about the reason behind his sudden departure from the team during a crucial playoff race. The Diamondbacks were trailing the San Diego Padres by two games in the National League wild-card standings when Marte vanished. This marks the second time in consecutive years that Marte has gone AWOL from the team.

Last season, he was placed on the restricted list after his home in Arizona was burglarized during the All-Star break, causing him to miss three games as he returned to his home in the Dominican Republic. Lovullo emphasized that the team is taking a sensitive approach to Marte's reintegration, respecting the player's privacy and desire to address his teammates on his own terms.

The manager also addressed concerns about potential fan reactions, assuring that the D-backs would rally behind Marte, acknowledging him as a "loving young man."