As young talent continues to make an immediate impact in the Majors, teams are becoming increasingly aggressive in securing long-term deals before players even reach arbitration, let alone free agency.
Just this week, the San Diego Padres locked up outfielder Jackson Merrill with a nine-year deal before his 22nd birthday, while the Boston Red Sox secured both ace Garrett Crochet and top infield prospect Kristian Campbell with long-term contracts.
But it’s not just rising stars benefiting from early-season extensions. According to AZ Central’s Nick Piecoro, the Arizona Diamondbacks have ensured that a key piece of their lineup stays put, agreeing to a six-year, $116.5 million contract extension with infielder Ketel Marte.
Ketel Marte contract extension: Full details on six-year, $116.5 million deal
Marte was already under contract for the long haul, having signed a five-year, $76 million extension before the 2023 season, which would have kept him in Arizona through at least 2027. However, after delivering two more outstanding seasons—including earning his second All-Star selection last year—the 31-year-old has proven he still has plenty of high-level baseball ahead of him.
Marte’s new deal provides him with long-term security in a market that has been tough on 30-something position players, while also giving Arizona added payroll flexibility as they look to stay competitive in the NL West.
After signing Corbin Burnes this offseason, the D-backs now rank 11th in MLB payroll, surpassing $195 million. Both ownership and GM Mike Hazen have emphasized their commitment to investing in a roster built for long-term contention.
The contract extends three guaranteed years in 2028, 2029, and 2030, with an $11.5 million player option for 2031. While Marte will be in his late 30s by then, securing him at a below-market rate throughout his prime makes any potential downside on the back end a worthwhile trade-off.
