PHILLIES PICK UP LUZARDO
The Philadelphia Phillies acquired pitcher Jesus Luzardo and catcher Paul McIntosh from the Miami Marlins for infielder Starlyn Caba and outfielder Emaarion Boyd.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
Luzardo adds to the Phillies' already deep starting rotation. The 27-year-old left-hander is coming off a down year in Miami that saw him struggle and miss time with injury. That said, he has a lot of upside and will look to get back on track in Philadelphia, where he will likely fill a spot at the back of the rotation. As for McIntosh, he will provide catching depth in the minors. A 2018 draft pick, he has yet to make his MLB debut, and spent last season at Double-A ball.
What does it give the Miami Marlins
Miami had concerns after Luzardo's ineffective 2024 season. They were able to bring in a quality prospect in Caba, a 19-year-old shortstop with elite speed and good potential. Boyd adds to their outfield prospects. He was a 2022 draft pick that posted impressive steals numbers in his first few minor-league seasons. For the Marlins, it hurts losing a pitcher with Luzardo's upside, but pitching is a strength and offensive prospects have been lacking. This trade helps address that need.
Fantasy impact
Luzardo is a risky pick going into the 2025 season. He is now an injury concern and his performance dropped off last year. But he is also a good bounce-back candidate who could fly under the radar in Philadelphia. However, do not overrate him. The other players in this trade are unlikely to be factors in fantasy leagues in the short term, but Caba's development in particular is worth keeping an eye on in coming seasons.
