The Philadelphia Phillies, after re-signing Kyle Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million extension, are looking to continue adding to the roster this winter.
While they likely won't go after a top free agent like Cody Bellinger or Kyle Tucker, they could explore the trade market. Luis Robert Jr. Is a name to keep in mind, but the prize of the trade block is Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte.
Despite having Bryson Stott, the Phillies have been rumored to be in play for Marte this offseason. And according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Phillies got some good news for a potential blockbuster this winter for Marte amid his no-trade clause list.
Phillies get good news on Ketel Marte blockbuster amid no-trade clause reveal
"Marte has a five-team no-trade list," Rosenthal writes, "the Athletics, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, Giants and Cardinals, according to people briefed on his contract."
The Yankees and Giants being out on Marte is some significant news. Those two teams might be among the best landing spots for Marte, but he doesn't want to go there, and can put a stop to any trade to those teams.
But the same cannot be said for the Phillies. Dave Dobmrowski and the Phillies wouldn't need Marte's permission to trade for him, as they aren't on his no-trade clause list.
Marte is 32 years old and is on a $105 million deal through the 2030 season with a 2031 player option. He's a great hitter with solid defense at second base. This past season, Marte hit.283 with an.893 OPS for the Diamondbacks.
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A three-time All-Star, Marte is one of the best second basemen in the Majors. Trading for him would prove to be a huge upgrade to the lineup, and also at second base.
While Stott is beloved in Philadelphia, his offense hasn't been the greatest, and upgrading from him is something in the cards for the Phillies this winter.
This piece of news from Rosenthal, that the five-team no-trade list doesn't include the Phillies, is a great first sign that the Phillies could trade for the superstar second baseman.
It won't come cheap, and the Phillies won't be the only team interested. However, Marte would be a worthwhile investment, as he could be the addition that sparks a World Series run in 2026 after a few NLDS exits the last two seasons.
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