Phillies Score Big with Pitcher Luzardo Trade

The Philadelphia Phillies have made a significant move in the offseason by acquiring left-handed starting pitcher Jesús Luzardo from the Miami Marlins. This deal comes after the Phillies addressed their outfield and bullpen needs by signing Jordan Romano and Max Kepler to one-year contracts. Luzardo, who is only 27, brings a lot of potential to the team. He's not just a fifth starter; he has the skills to be a top-tier pitcher when healthy. The Phillies are sending two prospects to Miami: shortstop Starlyn Caba and outfielder Emaarion Boyd. Caba is the Phillies' fourth-best prospect, and Boyd spent last season at High-A. Luzardo is under team control for two more years and could be a free agent after the 2026 season. He immediately strengthens the Phillies' rotation, which was already one of the best in the league. This move also provides insurance if another key pitcher, Ranger Suarez, decides to leave after his contract expires in 2025. Suarez recently hired a high-profile agent, indicating he might test the free-agent market. Luzardo's best season was in 2023, when he had a 3. 58 ERA and struck out 208 batters in 178⅔ innings. Despite some injury issues, including a back injury that sidelined him for the last part of the 2024 season, Luzardo says he is healthy and ready for the upcoming season. He has shown he can be a top-tier pitcher, with a 3. 48 ERA over 50 starts from 2022-2023. The Phillies' hitters have struggled against Luzardo in the past. In his last five regular-season games against them, he has an impressive 2. 97 ERA and 42 strikeouts in 30⅓ innings. Luzardo's fastball, which can reach 95-97 mph, along with his changeup and slider, make him a tough pitcher to face. Luzardo's contract situation is also favorable for the Phillies. He is projected to earn around $6 million through arbitration this offseason, with that number likely increasing to around $11 million next year. This is a bargain compared to other pitchers with similar potential. The Phillies are careful with their spending due to luxury tax penalties, so getting Luzardo at this price is a smart move. The Phillies didn't give up their top prospects in this trade. Caba is only 19 and just started playing Single-A ball. The Phillies are a win-now team, and Luzardo fits that strategy. They also received minor-league catcher Paul McIntosh, who had a solid season at Double-A last year. This trade pushes the Phillies' payroll close to $305 million, which is over the luxury tax threshold. However, the Phillies believe Luzardo's potential and the depth he adds to their rotation make this deal worthwhile. They've addressed their key needs and are set for the upcoming season.