Arizona Diamondbacks place Ketel Marte on restricted list after no-show

The Arizona Diamondbacks have placed Ketel Marte on the restricted list after the All-Star infielder failed to report for Monday’s game against the Boston Red Sox.

The franchise provided no immediate explanation for the sudden move.

Arizona management was forced to delay posting their starting lineup until just 15 minutes before the scheduled first pitch in Boston.

Infielder Jose Fernandez has been recalled from the minor leagues to fill the vacant roster spot.

Knee issues and recent form

The three-time All-Star has been a vital offensive contributor this season, recording 21 home runs and 67 RBIs across 118 appearances.

His physical condition had already been a topic of concern for the team’s medical staff in recent days.

The Dominican infielder was forced out of Friday’s victory over the Atlanta Braves in the very first inning due to left knee soreness.

However, the versatile switch-hitter appeared to have recovered quickly and returned to action during Sunday’s 5-3 defeat.

Previous absences

This is not the first time the seasoned professional has required an unexplained leave of absence.

He spent time on the restricted list exactly a year ago following a burglary at his property during the All-Star break.

On that occasion, he publicly apologised for missing three fixtures after flying back to his home in the Dominican Republic to deal with the incident.