The Blue Jays have checked in again on Ketel Marte, according to The Athletic's Mitch Bannon. Toronto balked at Arizona's asking price last winter, but this time could be different.

Bannon reported that Marte's turbulent 2026 could lower the price on the 33-year-old compared with a year ago.

That season had plenty of drama. He didn't show up for a game in Boston in August, then spent time on the restricted list and the injured list.

He was booed by some fans at Chase Field upon his return. Arizona Sports' John Gambadoro reported the Diamondbacks are expected to listen to offers for a second straight offseason.

The bat still plays. Marte slashed .249/.316/.432 with 22 homers last season.

So what's the catch? Several of them.

Ketel Marte's 10-and-5 rights give him the final say

As a 10-year veteran with at least five seasons on one club, Marte can veto any trade. He's also owed nearly $90 million over five seasons, ending with a 2031 player option.

There's a Toronto connection, though. He's married to Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s cousin and has played alongside him for the Dominican Republic at the World Baseball Classic.

The need is real. Ernie Clement posted a .493 OPS with one homer over the final 65 games of 2026.

Ross Atkins praised Clement at season's end but stopped short of naming him the starting second baseman.

The price drop makes this worth exploring, but Toronto needs to be careful. Taking on a 33-year-old with five years left and off-field questions is a lot of risk, even at a discount.

Buying now is like picking up a luxury car at a steep markdown after a rough history report. The price looks great, but you'd better trust the mechanic.

Brandon Lowe remains the cleaner second base option. He'd cost money, not prospects, and comes without the baggage.

If Arizona's price is truly low and Marte wants Toronto, the deal could make sense. If either condition fails, Atkins should turn his attention elsewhere.