Diamondbacks Acquire Left-Handed Reliever A.J. Puk from Marlins
In a notable mid-season trade, the Arizona Diamondbacks have bolstered their bullpen by acquiring left-handed reliever A.J. Puk from the Miami Marlins. The Marlins, in return, will receive promising prospects Deyvison De Los Santos and Andrew Pintar.
Puk's Performance and Role
A.J. Puk, who initially began the season in the Marlins' rotation, transitioned back to the bullpen after just four starts. The move has paid dividends as the southpaw has excelled in relief, posting a stingy 2.08 ERA with 33 strikeouts and six walks over 30 1/3 innings. Puk has consistently demonstrated his ability to suppress runs, earning an ERA+ of 109 across parts of five big-league seasons.
Looking ahead, Puk is expected to take on a critical role for the Diamondbacks as the primary lefty setup man behind closer Paul Sewald. This acquisition ensures that the Diamondbacks have a reliable arm to bridge the gap in late-inning situations, a component they had been lacking. Notably, Puk won’t be eligible for free agency until after the 2026 season, giving the Diamondbacks several years of team control.
Prospects Heading to Miami
In exchange for their reliable reliever, the Marlins received two promising prospects. Deyvison De Los Santos, who has launched 28 home runs in a combined 87 games at Double- and Triple-A levels this season, stands out as a significant acquisition. De Los Santos boasts an impressive career slash line of .293/.343/.508 over four minor-league seasons, showcasing his potent offensive capabilities. This season, the versatile slugger has seen action at first base, third base, and as a designated hitter (DH), adding critical versatility to his profile.
Andrew Pintar, the second prospect acquired in the trade, brings a solid .266/.355/.413 batting line over two minor-league campaigns to the Marlins organization. Recently promoted to Double-A, Pintar provides Miami with a dynamic player who has predominantly played center field as a professional. Additionally, Pintar has experience in left field and second base, reflecting his ability to adapt and perform in various defensive positions.
Strategic Implications for Both Teams
The current standings add context to the trade, with the Diamondbacks holding a 53-50 record. They are one game behind the Padres for the third and final wild-card position in the National League. With nine teams in the NL within 5 1/2 games of the final wild-card berth, bolstering the bullpen with a dependable reliever like Puk could be a decisive move as the Diamondbacks seek to secure a playoff spot.
For the Marlins, trading away an established reliever for two high-upside prospects aligns with their strategy of building for the future. De Los Santos and Pintar inject young talent into their minor league system, potentially setting the stage for a stronger roster in the coming seasons.
This trade marks a strategic move by both teams. The Diamondbacks aim to leverage their strengthened bullpen for a playoff push, while the Marlins focus on an infusion of young talent that could pay dividends in the long term.