Marlins provide Reds with intriguing alternative if Garrett Crochet talks fall apart

Although Terry Francona is reportedly not concerned with Cincinnati’s rotation depth, the Reds have been linked with a number of starters this offseason, most prominently Garrett Crochet. The active market for the Chicago White Sox star could soon push the Cincinnati Reds out of the picture. However, as one trade target door closes, another opens, and the latest name on the trade block could be a great fit in Cincy.

MLB insider Jon Morosi reported that Miami Marlins lefty Jesús Luzardo has been tossed out as a trade chip during this week’s MLB Winter Meetings. Luzardo broke out with Miami and proved to be a reliable No. 2 starter behind Sandy Alcántara. In 2022-23, Luzardo had a 3.48 ERA thanks to his elite fastball and dependable control. He boasted a 3.78 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 2023.

If the Reds miss out on Garrett Crochet, Jesús Luzardo could be the next name on the list

Luzardo, like Crochet, does come with risk. He missed much of the 2024 season with an elbow injury and a lumbar stress reaction, and when he was playing, he just wasn’t right. His velocity was down by several miles per hour across the board, resulting in a lower strikeout rate and higher exit velocity on batted balls.

In an interview with MLB Network, Luzardo reported that he was back to full health, but in his six years in the big leagues, he’s had issues with his rotator cuff, elbow, and back. In 2016, he underwent Tommy John surgery while still in high school. Whether the Reds want to take a risk on such a player is debatable.

Still, Luzardo could be a high-risk, high-reward candidate. If healthy, he provides the Reds with two years of team control and a solid rotation piece should Nick Martinez need to slide into a relief role. The Marlins would also be a fitting trade partner as their farm system is among the weakest in the league while the Reds are blessed with a number of trade chips.

Obviously, Crochet, who is younger and has more positional flexibility, would be the preferred pickup here, but the Reds could make some waves by taking a flier on Luzardo.

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