Miami Marlins: Proposing a Mock Jesus Luzardo Trade with the Cincinnati Reds

Miami Marlins lefty Jesus Luzardo was a major trade candidate at the 2024 mid-season deadline. Unfortunately, an untimely injury torpedoed any hopes of a move.

A recent CBS Sports article mentioned Luzardo among the top ten likeliest players to be moved before Opening Day 2025. They also mentioned Cincinnati Reds as a potential trade partner.

Does a Jesus Luzardo trade between the Marlins and Reds make sense for both teams?

While the 27-year-old Luzardo would be an ideal candidate to remain a centerpiece of Miami's rotation in 2025 and beyond, one cannot help but wonder if President Peter Benix would prefer to shop the lefty in exchange for more prospects.

If they do elect to maximize Luzardo's trade value, a move with Cincy could make sense. It stands to reason that the Reds' top prospect, Chase Burns, would be off-limits (though Bendix would be wise to ask).

However, shortstop Edwin Arroyo, MLB.com's 65th-ranked prospect, would be a realistic target starting point. The 21-year-old Arroyo was developing into a super well-rounded hitter. He had plus contact skills, hitting .268 in his minor league career. His speed was reliable, allowing him to steal 56 bases over his first two full seasons as a professional baseball player. Reports also indicate that Arroyo was beginning to show tangible strides as a power hitter.

Unfortunately, the Puerto Rican infielder suffered a torn labrum in March 2024. The subsequent surgery halted his momentum and development.

The Marlins would need to be diligent in their research and physical. However, Arroyo still profiles as a high-upside batter at a position that Miami has no obvious long-term option to fill.

Considering Luzardo's success and his team-friendly contract, it would also be wise for the Marlins to request at least one additional mid-level prospect as well. Pitchers like Luke Holman (the Reds' #13 prospect), Connor Phillips (#15), Ty Floyd (#18), or Tristan Smith (#20) would be interesting options for Miami to add to their pitching development program.

At the end of the day, Miami should only consider moving Luzardo in a deal in which they acquire a top-100 prospect. An additional sweetener of some sort only tilts the scales further.

If the Reds are indeed incentivized to win with their current core, trading a player like Arroyo, or perhaps even infield Sal Stewart (MLB's #76 overall prospect), gives them the firepower to make a compelling offer to Miami.