The Toronto Blue Jays have stepped up their pursuit of Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte, with talks between the clubs intensifying in recent days.

MLB insider Hector Gomez reported that the sides are exploring a deal that could include a contract restructure, specifically a four-year, $135 million extension layered onto Marte’s existing agreement.

Toronto has made no secret of its need for more run production after ranking as baseball’s lowest-scoring team in 2026.

The middle infield, largely a combination of Andrés Giménez and Ernie Clement, was a significant part of that shortfall. Adding Marte would give the Blue Jays an everyday second baseman with a proven track record of power and consistency when healthy.

The 33-year-old is a three-time All-Star, a two-time Silver Slugger, and the 2023 NLCS MVP. Even in what was viewed as a down year last season, he hit .249 with 22 home runs and 76 RBI.

Marte is currently under a six-year, $116.5 million contract. Any trade would require him to waive his 10-and-5 rights, which allow a player with at least ten years of major-league service and five with one club to block a deal.

The Blue Jays may hold an advantage on that front. Marte is married to a cousin of Toronto first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and the two played together for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic.

Those personal ties could make Toronto a more appealing destination if he is open to a move.

This is not the first time the clubs have discussed Marte.

According to The Athletic’s Mitch Bannon, the Blue Jays inquired last offseason but were deterred by Arizona’s asking price, which centered on controllable starting pitching.

Bannon noted that Toronto has checked in again this winter. While the Diamondbacks may still seek a substantial return, their desire to move on from the contract could eventually lower the cost, particularly if a potential December 1 lockout creates added urgency.

What the Blue Jays would ultimately send back remains unclear. Arizona has been motivated to shed payroll, which could reduce the talent package required.

Even so, acquiring a player of Marte’s caliber would still represent a significant investment in both money and roster flexibility.

For a Toronto team looking to reshape its offense before next season, the interest is logical.

Whether the sides can bridge the remaining gap on value and contract structure will determine if the rumors turn into a completed trade.