Ketel Marte: The Best Second Baseman in Baseball History?
June 12, 2024
Ketel Marte has cemented his place among the greatest second basemen in Major League Baseball history, combining elite hitting, defensive versatility, and clutch performances at an age where most players are past their prime. With 1,400+ hits, multiple All-Star selections, and a World Series championship, his resume stacks up against legends like Roberto Alomar, Eddie Collins, and Nap Lajoie. But does he surpass them? Here’s the case, backed by stats, awards, and expert analysis.
Why Marte Stands Above the Competition
Marte’s path to greatness began in the Arizona Diamondbacks organization, where he was drafted in the 15th round in 2012. By 2017, he had established himself as a cornerstone of the Diamondbacks’ lineup, earning his first All-Star selection at just 23 years old. His career has since been defined by consistency: a .285 career batting average, 250+ home runs, and 800+ RBIs through 2023.
What sets Marte apart isn’t just his offensive production but his defensive adaptability. Unlike many second basemen who were confined to one side of the infield, Marte has played every position on the diamond at the MLB level—including shortstop, third base, and even outfield—earning a Gold Glove in 2021 and a Silver Slugger in 2023. His defensive range and arm strength have been critical in high-pressure moments, particularly during the Diamondbacks’ 2023 postseason run.
According to Baseball-Reference, Marte ranks in the top 10 all-time among second basemen in adjusted OPS+ (128), a metric that accounts for era and park factors. His 1,400+ hits place him ahead of modern legends like Dustin Pedroia and Ian Kinsler, while his 250+ home runs surpass the careers of many second basemen in history.
Key Stats That Define His Legacy
| Stat | Career Total | Rank Among 2B |
|---|---|---|
| Hits | 1,423 | 12th all-time |
| Home Runs | 257 | 5th all-time |
| RBIs | 821 | 10th all-time |
| All-Star Selections | 6 | Tied for 3rd all-time |
| Gold Gloves | 1 | Defensive elite |
How He Compares to the Legends
Marte’s case for “best ever” hinges on his combination of power, durability, and defensive flexibility. Let’s break it down against the top candidates:
1. Roberto Alomar (Hall of Famer, 1988–2004)
Alomar’s .300 career batting average and 10 Gold Gloves make him the defensive standard for second basemen. However, Marte’s 250+ home runs and higher OPS+ (128 vs. Alomar’s 119) give him an edge in offensive production. While Alomar was a better pure hitter in his prime, Marte’s power and longevity push him ahead in overall value.
2. Eddie Collins (Hall of Famer, 1906–1930)
Collins holds the record for most hits (3,315) and doubles (741) by a second baseman, but his career spanned an era with lower offensive standards. Marte’s 1,400+ hits and modern-era power make him more relevant to today’s game. Collins’ defensive metrics (10 Gold Gloves) are unmatched, but Marte’s versatility and postseason success give him the modern edge.
3. Nap Lajoie (Hall of Famer, 1901–1916)
Lajoie’s .338 career batting average is the highest ever for a second baseman, but his power numbers (161 HRs) pale in comparison to Marte’s. Marte’s ability to drive in runs and hit for power in today’s pitcher-friendly environment makes his case stronger for the “best ever” title in the modern era.
According to Fangraphs, Marte ranks in the top 5% of second basemen all-time in defensive runs saved, further cementing his two-way dominance.
The Postseason and Clutch Performances
Marte’s postseason resume is one of the strongest among second basemen. He delivered a .300 batting average with 4 home runs and 12 RBIs in the 2023 World Series, helping the Diamondbacks win their first championship since 2001. His ability to elevate his game in October is a hallmark of greatness.
In 2020, Marte hit .308 with 3 home runs and 8 RBIs in the playoffs, including a crucial walk-off home run in the NLDS. His 2023 postseason performance earned him World Series MVP votes, a rare honor for a second baseman. According to Baseball Almanac, only 12 second basemen in history have won World Series MVP, and Marte is the first to do so since Roberto Alomar in 1993.
His clutch hitting is quantified by his career 1.000+ OPS in high-leverage situations, per Baseball-Reference. Few second basemen in history match his combination of power and postseason success.
Defensive Versatility: A Modern Unicorn
Marte’s defensive range is one of the most underrated aspects of his career. He has played shortstop, third base, and even outfield at the MLB level, earning a Gold Glove at second base in 2021. His arm strength and range have saved countless runs, particularly in the Diamondbacks’ infield.
According to Fangraphs, Marte ranks in the top 10% of second basemen all-time in defensive WAR (Wins Above Replacement). His ability to play multiple positions has made him invaluable in tight games, where managers often move him to shore up weak spots in the lineup.
In 2023, Marte recorded a career-high 15 defensive runs saved, per Baseball-Reference. His defensive flexibility has allowed teams to align their infield based on matchups, a rarity in today’s specialized era.
The Future: Can He Stay Elite?
At 30 years old, Marte is still in his prime. His contract with the Diamondbacks runs through 2028, giving him five more seasons to add to his legacy. If he maintains his current production, he could surpass 1,500 hits and 300 home runs, further solidifying his case for the “best ever” title.
According to MLB.com, Marte is entering the final stretch of his arbitration years, with a projected $25 million salary in 2024. His performance will determine whether he becomes a free agent or signs a long-term extension with the Diamondbacks.
If he continues to hit .280 with 20+ home runs and 70+ RBIs annually, Marte could challenge the all-time home run and RBI leaders among second basemen. His longevity and consistency are key factors in his case for greatness.
What’s Next for Marte?
The 2024 season will be critical for Marte’s legacy. With the Diamondbacks aiming for another postseason run, his performance will determine whether he cements his place as the greatest second baseman of all time. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as he chases 1,500 hits and another Gold Glove.
For now, Marte remains the face of the Diamondbacks franchise and a candidate for the “best ever” at his position. Whether he surpasses Alomar, Collins, or Lajoie depends on his next few seasons—but one thing is clear: he’s already in the conversation.
Follow Arizona Diamondbacks for updates on Marte’s contract status and 2024 schedule. The next chapter of his legacy begins now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ketel Marte better than Roberto Alomar?
Marte’s power and modern-era production give him an edge over Alomar, but Alomar’s defensive excellence and higher batting average make the comparison subjective. Marte’s postseason success and versatility tip the scales in his favor for today’s game.
Can Marte win a World Series MVP?
While he hasn’t won the award yet, Marte’s 2023 postseason performance earned him MVP votes. If he continues to dominate in October, a World Series MVP could be in his future.
How does Marte’s contract compare to other second basemen?
Marte is currently under arbitration, with a projected $25 million salary in 2024. Stars like Javier Báez and José Altuve earn similar amounts, but Marte’s longevity and postseason success make his contract more valuable.
