Ketel Marte’s Walk-Off Heroics Propel Diamondbacks in NLCS

In Game 3 of the NLCS, rookie pitcher Brandon Pfaadt delivered a stellar performance to keep the Arizona Diamondbacks in the game. However, it was veteran Ketel Marte who ultimately secured the victory with a walk-off single. Marte’s clutch performance showcased his incredible talent and determination to help his team win.

Manager Torey Lovullo praised Marte, stating that he has an unbelievable heartbeat and thrives in high-pressure moments. As the longest-tenured D-back, Marte proved why he is one of the team’s best players. Lovullo described him as having the heart of a lion and a relentless desire to be the main contributor for his team’s success.

Marte’s success in the game was no accident. He was strategically moved to the leadoff spot to take advantage of his exceptional performance against left-handed pitchers. Throughout the night, Marte hit the ball hard, including a groundout in the first inning with an exit velocity of 115.4 MPH, which was the ninth-hardest-hit ball of his career. He followed it up with two ringing doubles, one of which nearly cleared the left field fence for a home run.

Both teams had numerous scoring opportunities throughout the later stages of the game, but it was Marte who ultimately capitalized on the situation. In the ninth inning, facing a shaky Craig Kimbrel with the winning run on third base, Marte rose to the occasion. After Kimbrel walked Geraldo Perdomo to load the bases, he had no choice but to attack the zone, even against Arizona’s hottest hitter. On the second pitch, Marte smashed a high-heater into center field to win the game.

This walk-off hit marked Marte’s third hit of the night and the same number of hits the entire Phillies lineup collected in Game 3. It was also the third walk-off in Diamondbacks postseason history. Marte’s heroics solidified his status as a key player for the team.

Marte’s outstanding performance in the game was part of an incredible individual stretch he has been experiencing during Arizona’s successful postseason run. He has recorded a hit in all eight games for the Diamondbacks, tying the third-longest hitting streak to start a postseason career in MLB history.

While Marte’s October hit streak stretches back to 2017, which may seem odd due to the long time between playoff appearances, it serves as a reminder of his longevity with the team. After being traded from the Mariners to the Diamondbacks in a high-profile swap following the 2016 season, Marte quickly made an impact on the field. In his debut year with the team in 2017, he played shortstop every day and helped the Diamondbacks reach the playoffs.

However, the team’s success was short-lived, and they did not make another postseason appearance until this year’s run to the Wild Card and beyond. Despite the ups and downs the team experienced, Marte developed into one of the premier switch-hitters in baseball. He has continuously showcased his versatility by playing multiple positions in the field, bouncing between second base and center field.

Trade rumors have surrounded Marte as the team struggled to build a winning roster. However, the Diamondbacks demonstrated their commitment to him as a foundational piece of the team by signing him to a $76 million extension before the 2022 season. This decision has proved to be wise, as Marte bounced back from a disappointing 2022 season and returned to All-Star form in 2023.

In addition to his impressive individual accomplishments, Marte’s postseason success has solidified his place in Diamondbacks history. As one of the only two remaining players from the 2017 playoff run, along with Christian Walker, Marte’s experience and leadership have been invaluable to the team.

Marte’s dedication and determination have made him a crucial asset to the Diamondbacks. Despite being in his seventh year with the team, he continues to give his all and views this as the right opportunity to showcase his abilities. Marte’s journey with the organization, from reaching the playoffs as a young player to enduring tough seasons, has shaped him into the player he is today.

As the Diamondbacks continue their postseason run, Marte’s consistency and clutch performances will be vital for the team’s success. His walk-off heroics in Game 3 of the NLCS serve as a reminder of his undeniable talent and his unwavering commitment to helping his team win.