Diamondbacks Acquire A.J. Puk from Marlins in Strategic Move
In a move aimed at bolstering their bullpen for the playoff push, the Arizona Diamondbacks have acquired left-handed reliever A.J. Puk from the Miami Marlins. In exchange, the Marlins will receive promising prospects Deyvison De Los Santos and Andrew Pintar.
A.J. Puk's Performance and Role
A.J. Puk commenced the season in the Marlins' rotation, but after four starts, he transitioned back to the bullpen where he has excelled. Over 30 1/3 innings as a reliever this year, Puk has posted a stellar 2.08 ERA with 33 strikeouts and six walks. His overall performance has been solid, earning an ERA+ of 109 across parts of five big-league seasons. Puk will not be eligible for free agency until after the 2026 season, giving the Diamondbacks a reliable arm in the bullpen for the foreseeable future.
In Arizona, Puk is expected to become the primary lefty setup man behind closer Paul Sewald, a role critical for the Diamondbacks as they aim to secure a spot in the postseason.
Prospects Heading to Miami
In return for Puk, the Marlins receive two talented prospects, Deyvison De Los Santos and Andrew Pintar. De Los Santos has been impressive this season, hitting 28 home runs in a combined 87 games at Double- and Triple-A levels. Over four minor-league seasons, he has maintained a robust career slash line of .293/.343/.508. This year, De Los Santos has showcased his versatility, playing at first base, third base, and as a designated hitter (DH).
Andrew Pintar, another promising prospect, has a .266/.355/.413 batting line in his two minor-league campaigns. He has recently been promoted to Double-A, reflecting his upward trajectory. Pintar has predominantly played center field as a professional but possesses the flexibility to cover left field and second base as well.
Diamondbacks in the Tie Break
As of now, the Diamondbacks hold a 53-50 record, trailing just one game behind the San Diego Padres for the third and final wild-card position in the National League. The race for postseason spots is incredibly tight, with nine teams in the NL within 5 1/2 games of the final wild-card berth. The addition of A.J. Puk is a strategic move, aiming to strengthen their bullpen during this crucial stretch.
This trade reflects the ambition of both teams. The Diamondbacks are fortifying their roster for an immediate playoff push, while the Marlins are investing in their future by acquiring valuable prospects. Each team has clear objectives aligned with their current strategies, making this transaction mutually beneficial.
By securing A.J. Puk, the Diamondbacks hope to enhance their late-inning pitching stability, an essential factor as they strive to clinch a postseason spot. Meanwhile, the Marlins bolster their farm system with two high-potential players who could significantly impact their roster in the coming seasons.