MLB Rumors: Jesus Luzardo Drawing Strong Interest From AL East Team

Coming into the off-season, everyone around baseball was expecting the Baltimore Orioles to add significantly to the one soft spot on their team—the starting rotation. Then, month after month went by until we reached February just days before the start of spring training, and still nothing new in the O’s rotation.

Suddenly, everything changed. First, Baltimore acquired a Cy Young winner, Corbin Burnes, in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, and now we get word that they have interest in dealing for another elite young starter.

The Orioles have shown interest in trading for Jesús Luzardo, per @flasportsbuzz & @CraigMish pic.twitter.com/cCt0JAotdM
— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) February 15, 2024

Miami Marlins insiders Craig Mishand Barry Jackson have reported that the O’s are eyeing Jesus Luzardo. The 26-year-old exploded into an ace pitcher two seasons ago in his first full year with the Fish. In 2022, Luzardo posted a 3.32 ERA in 18 starts allowing just 69 hits in 100 innings while striking out a whopping 10.8 batters per nine innings.

He followed that up in 2023 with another strong year in Miami, posting a 3.58 ERA along with a 1.21 WHIP in 32 starts while crossing the 200-strikeout threshold. His 208:55 strikeout-to-walk ratio was eye-popping. He’s under club control through the 2026 season.

This latest rumour comes after it was learned that No. 2 Baltimore starter Kyle Bradish will start the season on the injured list with a UCL sprain. Naturally, that is never a good thing for a pitcher. For the time being, Tommy John surgery isn’t being considered, but an elbow injury, especially involving the UCL, should have the Orioles nervous.

The Marlins have made a habit in recent years of trading from their starting pitching depth in order to strengthen other parts of their roster. This winter is no different. In addition to Luzardo, Edward Cabrera is also on the trade market, and there are even rumors that he might be on the verge of being dealt.

Photo: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports