With the MLB now looking like an arms race at the top, teams that hope to push for the World Series are remaining active in free agency and on the trading block, and that includes the Phillies.
With the Mets making a splash by signing Juan Soto, the Phillies opted to make some moves of their own to improve their odds of taking home an NL East title.
With bats like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner and Kyle Schwarber already on the roster, Dave Dombrowski was looking to add some talent to the pitching staff this offseason. He’s landed on former Miami Marlin, Jesús Luzardo, who the Phillies just acquired via trade.
Let’s take a look at the full details of Philadelphia’s trade for Luzardo.
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Jesús Luzardo trade details
Phillies receive:
- SP Jesús Luzardo
- C Paul McIntosh
Marlins receive:
- INF Starlyn Caba
- OF Emaarion Boyd
As reported by The Athletic’s Matt Gelb, the Phillies traded prospects Starlyn Caba and Emaarion Boyd to acquire Luzardo and minor league catcher Paul McIntosh.
Caba is the focal point of this deal for the Marlins. The switch-hitting 19-year-old ended the year in Single-A Clearwater, where he displayed some exciting traits as both a hitter and fielder. While it’s very early in his career, Caba is known for his defensive play, displaying solid range and all-around defensive skills. He has a bit of a ways to go before he hits an MLB roster, but Caba will be one to keep an eye on for Marlins fans.
On the other side of this trade, Luzardo is quite clearly the key piece heading to Philadelphia. Unfortunately, Luzardo was only able to get 12 starts under his belt last season before he was shut down due to a back injury.
Prior to this injury-riddled season, Luzardo was coming off a career year for the Marlins. Across 32 starts in 2023, Luzardo posted a 10-10 record, a 3.58 ERA and 10.5 K/9 ratio, all among the best marks of his career. He projects to make an immediate impact on an already strong Philadelphia rotation.
Phillies Starting Pitcher depth chart
| Philadelphia Phillies Starting Rotation | |
|---|---|
| Pitcher | Name |
|
1 |
Zach Wheeler |
|
2 |
Aaron Nola |
|
3 |
Ranger Suarez |
| 4 | Jesús Luzardo |
| 5 | Taijuan Walker |
| 6 | Cristopher Sanchez |
Luzardo joins one of the deeper and more talented rotations in baseball. He’ll join Zach Wheeler, a perennial Cy Young candidate, Aaron Nola and Ranger Suarez, who was among the hottest pitchers in baseball to start the 2023 season.
Luzardo will likely come in as the No. 4 pitcher in this rotation, slotting in behind Suarez.
