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Sought-After Marlins Pitcher Could Be Potential Orioles Fit This Winter

Sought-After Marlins Pitcher Emerges as Potential Fit for Baltimore Orioles This Winter

As the Baltimore Orioles look ahead to the offseason following a promising yet ultimately disappointing 2023 campaign, the team's front office is poised to address one of its most glaring weaknesses: starting pitching depth. With a young, talented core that includes stars like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and a slew of emerging prospects, the Orioles have built a foundation for sustained success. However, their rotation has been a point of vulnerability, especially after injuries and inconsistencies plagued the unit during the latter half of the season and into the playoffs. Enter Jesús Luzardo, the Miami Marlins' left-handed starter who has been generating significant buzz as a trade candidate this winter. According to recent reports and insider speculation, Luzardo could represent an ideal acquisition for Baltimore, offering a blend of youth, upside, and controllability that aligns perfectly with the Orioles' long-term vision.

Luzardo, a 26-year-old southpaw, has established himself as one of the more intriguing arms in the National League over the past few seasons. Originally drafted by the Washington Nationals in 2016, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics as part of the deal that sent Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson to D.C. Luzardo made his major league debut with the A's in 2019, showing flashes of brilliance but struggling with command and health issues early on. His career took a significant turn when he was dealt to the Marlins ahead of the 2021 trade deadline in exchange for Starling Marte. Since arriving in Miami, Luzardo has blossomed into a reliable starter, posting a 3.58 ERA across 32 starts in 2023 while striking out 208 batters in 178.2 innings. His ability to miss bats with a mid-90s fastball, a devastating changeup, and a slider that generates whiffs has made him a sought-after commodity, especially for teams like the Orioles who are seeking cost-effective pitching reinforcements without breaking the bank on free agents.

What makes Luzardo particularly appealing to Baltimore is his contract situation. He is under team control through the 2026 season, with arbitration eligibility beginning this winter. This means the Orioles could acquire a pitcher entering his prime without committing to a massive long-term deal, allowing them to allocate resources elsewhere—perhaps toward extending their young position players or bolstering the bullpen. In an era where starting pitching has become increasingly expensive and scarce, Luzardo's projected arbitration salary for 2024 is around $5-6 million, a bargain compared to what top free-agent starters like Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery might command. For a team like the Orioles, who have operated on a modest payroll despite their recent success, this affordability is crucial. General Manager Mike Elias has a track record of savvy trades and player development, and adding Luzardo could be a masterstroke similar to the acquisitions of Corbin Burnes or other under-the-radar talents that have fueled Baltimore's resurgence.

From a fit perspective, Luzardo's skill set complements the Orioles' current rotation needs exceptionally well. Baltimore's starting staff in 2023 was led by Kyle Bradish and Grayson Rodriguez, both of whom showed ace potential but were hampered by injuries and inexperience at times. Veterans like John Means and Tyler Wells provided stability, but the depth beyond them was thin, contributing to the team's wild-card exit against the Kansas City Royals. Luzardo, with his left-handed dominance, would add balance to a rotation that is predominantly right-handed. His ability to induce ground balls and limit hard contact could play well in Camden Yards, a park known for its hitter-friendly dimensions in left-center field. Moreover, Luzardo's experience in high-pressure situations—having pitched in the playoffs with the A's and contributing to the Marlins' surprising postseason run in 2023—would bring a level of maturity to a young Orioles clubhouse still learning to navigate October baseball.

Trade discussions surrounding Luzardo have heated up as the Marlins appear open to reshaping their roster. Miami, coming off a 62-100 season in 2024 after their brief playoff appearance the year prior, is in a rebuilding phase under new leadership. The team has a surplus of young pitching talent, including Eury Pérez and Max Meyer, which could make Luzardo expendable if the right offer comes along. Reports indicate that the Marlins are seeking position-player prospects in return, particularly outfielders or infielders with power potential. This plays directly into the Orioles' strengths, as Baltimore boasts one of the deepest farm systems in baseball. Prospects like Heston Kjerstad, Samuel Basallo, or Enrique Bradfield Jr. could headline a package that entices Miami without depleting the Orioles' core. Elias has been cautious about trading top prospects in the past, but Luzardo's age and control make him worth the investment, especially if it means avoiding the volatility of the free-agent market.

Of course, no potential acquisition is without risks. Luzardo's injury history is a notable concern; he missed time in 2022 with a forearm strain and has dealt with elbow issues in the past. While he stayed relatively healthy in 2023, throwing a career-high in innings, teams will undoubtedly scrutinize his medicals during any trade negotiations. Additionally, his command can be erratic at times, leading to higher walk rates that inflate his WHIP. For the Orioles, who emphasize pitching development through their analytics-driven approach, these flaws could be ironed out under the guidance of coaches like Holt and the team's renowned player development staff. If Baltimore can help Luzardo refine his control and maintain his velocity, he has the ceiling to become a No. 2 starter behind Bradish, forming a formidable one-two punch at the top of the rotation.

Beyond the on-field fit, acquiring Luzardo would signal the Orioles' intent to compete at the highest level in the American League East. The division remains a gauntlet, with the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Tampa Bay Rays all capable of contending. Baltimore's 91-win season in 2023 and division title were steps in the right direction, but their playoff shortcomings highlighted the need for more reliable arms. Free agency offers options like Max Fried or Sonny Gray, but those come with hefty price tags and no-trade clauses that could complicate matters. Trading for Luzardo allows the Orioles to maintain financial flexibility while addressing an immediate need, potentially setting the stage for a deeper postseason run in 2025.

Insiders around the league have noted that multiple teams are interested in Luzardo, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, and even the Cincinnati Reds, all of whom could drive up the asking price. The Dodgers, with their deep pockets and prospect capital, might outbid Baltimore if they prioritize pitching over other needs. However, the Orioles' willingness to part with high-upside talent could give them an edge, especially if Miami values position players over additional pitching prospects. As the Winter Meetings approach, expect Luzardo's name to be a frequent topic of conversation, with Baltimore positioned as a logical suitor.

In summary, Jesús Luzardo represents more than just a potential trade target for the Baltimore Orioles; he embodies the type of smart, strategic addition that has defined the Elias era. With his combination of strikeout ability, youth, and team-friendly contract, Luzardo could solidify the rotation and propel the team toward championship contention. While challenges like his injury history and the competitive trade market loom, the upside far outweighs the risks for a franchise on the cusp of greatness. As the offseason unfolds, keep an eye on whether the Orioles make a bold move to bring this Marlins standout to the Inner Harbor, potentially transforming their pitching staff and elevating their status in the AL hierarchy.

This potential union between Luzardo and the Orioles isn't just about filling a roster spot; it's about building a sustainable winner. The Marlins, in trading him, would be accelerating their rebuild by acquiring pieces that fit their timeline, while Baltimore gains a pitcher who could thrive in their environment. Fans in Charm City have waited patiently for the team to take the next step, and landing a talent like Luzardo could be the catalyst. Whether through trade negotiations or unexpected twists, this storyline promises to be one of the more compelling narratives of the MLB offseason, highlighting the intricate dance of team-building in modern baseball. (Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/mlb/orioles/news/sought-after-marlins-pitcher-could-be-potential-orioles-fit-this-winter ]