Lovullo: Marte 'great teammate' after reported criticism from D-Backs players

Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte responded to reported criticism from his teammates about him asking for too many days off.

According to the report, D-Backs players and other members of the organization were bothered by Marte missing three games after his house was burglarized during the All-Star break.

His teammates were also reportedly irritated after Marte asked for a day off in the final week of last season during a tight playoff race.

"Obviously, his goal in baseball and his responsibility in this organization is always helping to win," Marte said through an interpreter Monday, according to Jose M. Romero of AZ Central Sports.

"In the nine years he's been here, he's always tried to play hard or support the team or teammates of the organization, and that's still going to be his goal."

Marte explained some of the aforementioned days off were planned.

"In his opinion, it's something needed and he doesn't think it's too many days off," Marte said.

"He's had injuries in the past and this was a plan that's been integrated by the coaching staff and himself in order to keep him on the field the longest."

D-Backs manager Torey Lovullo backed Marte's effort Monday and asked for the situation to be put to rest so his club could focus on winning games.

"He's a great teammate, a great young man. He goes out there and plays hard every single day for the Arizona Diamondbacks," Lovullo said, according to Julia Lopez of AZ Family.

"It's over. I want to put it behind us."