Reporters expect the Miami Marlins to do a lot of selling at the trade deadline. One of their biggest stars may be on the trade block, and he could help the Boston Red Sox this season, and into the future.
Jesús Luzardo's name was floated in trade rumors over the winter, but the Marlins opted to hold onto him for the 2024 season. MLB insider Jim Bowden reported a change in Miami's tune — Luzardo is one of the Marlins' most likely trade candidates before the deadline this July.
Miami's season isn't going well. The Fish have only won 18 games and the organization has announced that it won't renew manager Skip Schumaker's contract for next year. If Miami holds a fire sale, the Red Sox should get in on the action and make a push for Luzardo.
The 26-year-old has pitched to a 5.02 ERA in 37.2 innings, which looks rough compared to what Boston's starters have accomplished this season. Luzardo gave Miami 178.2 quality innings of work in 2023 and his skillset could round out any starting rotation.
Jesús Luzardo could be a great trade option for the Red Sox starting rotation
Skip gave Jesús Luzardo his flowers after a stellar outing on Friday. 👏 pic.twitter.com/O5llOXxK4c
— Bally Sports Florida: Marlins (@BallyMarlins) May 18, 2024
The Red Sox recently received bad news about Garrett Whitlock and season-ending surgery could be on the table for the righty. Cooper Criswell has served Boston's rotation well, but Luzardo's track record speaks for itself. Luzardo is also under team control until the 2027 season, which could help the Red Sox cover their bases if they don't extend Nick Pivetta, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the campaign.
The Marlins lack middle infielders near the top of their prospect pool and the Red Sox are overstocked in that department. Nick Yorke and a few other candidates could be part of a trade package for the young starter.
Andrew Bailey could make a star out of Luzardo and he would suit the Red Sox's rotation nicely. A trade for the lefty could be a safer bet than gambling on Lucas Giolito next season, and Boston should seriously consider an exchange with Miami.