Marlins’ left-handed pitcher available could give Braves ‘better chance to win it all’

It’s no secret that the Atlanta Braves are looking to add a starting pitcher, and a left-hander from the Miami Marlins could be just what Atlanta needs.

The Braves are undoubtedly calling various teams as they zero in on a starter. Atlanta is monitoring the situation of Garrett Crochet, Luis Severino, Erick Fedde and Kyle Hendricks, among others.

An additional option for Atlanta is to call the Marlins about Jesus Luzardo.

Luzardo has been mentioned as a likely trade item in several recent reports, including a report from Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter that named Atlanta as the club most likely to sign Luzardo.

“The Braves’ top rotation has been terrific, but the revolving door at fifth has exposed the unproven nature of their depth, and Luzardo would fill one of the few glaring holes on the roster,” Reuter said.

What sets Luzardo apart from some of the other possible acquisitions for Atlanta is that he has several years left on his contract. Such a degree of team control could also make Miami hesitant to move Luzardo, especially to a team in its division, according to Reuters.

“It’s also fair to wonder if the Marlins will even consider trading Luzardo with his many years of remaining control of the club to a division rival,” Reuter said. “That said, the Braves are in win-now mode and the Marlins have already waved the white flag, so it makes sense to make a deal… It gives the Braves a better chance to win it all in 2024.”

Luzardo, 26, had a breakout season last year in Miami, striking out 208 and compiling a 3.58 ERA in 178 2/3 innings.

Being traded from the Marlins to a World Series contender would be a turning point in Luzardo’s career. Will Atlanta make a deal?

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