MLB Insider Reveals Baltimore Orioles reportedly Intereted in Miami Marlins pitcher
The Baltimore Orioles are said to be considering revisiting a trade for a pitcher from the Miami Marlins during spring training
The Baltimore Orioles’ pitching lineup appeared promising for the 2024 MLB season following the addition of Corbin Burnes. Nevertheless, recent injury updates on two pitchers might compel Baltimore to seek additional pitching options before the season kicks off.
As the players gathered for spring training, Baltimore revealed that Kyle Bradish would be sidelined at the beginning of the season due to a UCL sprain. Furthermore, John Means is undergoing a cautious recovery process after experiencing elbow discomfort towards the end of the previous season.
In the 2023 season the Baltimore Orioles rotation statistics were as follows: an ERA of 4.14 (ranked 11th in the MLB), a strikeout rate of 8.37 per 9 innings (ranked 18th in the MLB), a WHIP of 1.23 (ranked 9th in the MLB), and a batting average allowed of .244 (ranked 13th in the MLB).
The setback due to injuries has prompted significant concerns regarding the Baltimore Orioles’ pitching rotation, especially given its limited depth. As two key starters are currently recovering from elbow problems, the team may need to reassess past trade discussions to address the situation.
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported that the Orioles engaged in detailed negotiations with the Miami Marlins earlier in the offseason regarding a potential trade centering around pitcher Jesus Luzardo. As Bradish is set to be placed on the injured list and Means’ availability for Opening Day remains uncertain, there is a possibility that these trade talks may resurface.
Despite Sandy Alcantara’s absence for the upcoming 2024 MLB season, the Miami Marlins are willing to trade some of their pitching talent. Although Edward Cabrera is frequently considered a potential trade asset for Miami, the Baltimore Orioles have shown interest in acquiring Jesus Luzardo.
Statistics for Jesus Luzardo in 2023:
- ERA: 3.58
- Strikeouts per nine innings (K/9): 10.48
- Home runs per nine innings (HR/9): 1.11
- Walks plus hits per innings pitched (WHIP): 1.21
- Batting average allowed: .238 in 178.2 innings pitched.
Having already experienced two trades in his career, Luzardo could offer Baltimore a young starting pitcher under team control. The left-handed 26-year-old is eligible for arbitration until the 2026 season, then set to become a free agent at age 29.
Blessed with one of the top farm systems in baseball, the Orioles are in a strong position to facilitate a trade for Luzardo, boasting hitting prospects that align well with the Marlins’ requirements. Given the extensive discussions between the two teams this offseason, any additional injury setbacks to the Orioles’ pitching rotation could potentially lead to a trade agreement.
