MLB Rumors: Cubs & Marlins Talking Trade

The Chicago Cubs are making a strong push to acquire Miami Marlins left-hander Jesús Luzardo as they continue their aggressive offseason overhaul, according to multiple reports. 

After trading for All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker and signing veteran lefty Matthew Boyd, the Cubs remain focused on bolstering their rotation for the 2025 season. 

Discussions between the two teams have reportedly been ongoing for several days, with Bruce Levine of Marquee Sports Network noting that Miami is seeking "a young, controllable bat" in return. 

Top Cubs prospects Owen Caissie and James Triantos, ranked No. 2 and No. 5 in their system, have been mentioned as potential trade pieces.

Cubs working hard on Jesus Luzardo deal with Marlins.They could have four lefties in their rotation. Luzardo made $5.5 mil in 2024. He has two years of arbitration before free agent status in 2027.

— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) December 16, 2024

Luzardo, 27, offers high upside despite coming off a rough 2024 season where he posted a 5.00 ERA over 12 starts before being sidelined with a lumbar stress reaction. 

In the two seasons prior, Luzardo established himself as a reliable starter, recording a 3.48 ERA, a 1.15 WHIP, and 328 strikeouts across 279 innings. 

With two years of team control and a projected $8.6 million salary in arbitration, Luzardo is an appealing option for a Cubs team looking to add depth behind Shota Imanaga, Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, and Boyd. 

Levine stated, “I think Luzardo is something [the Cubs] would really like to get done here in the next few days,” showing the team’s urgency to complete the deal.

The Marlins have expressed interest in Jefferson Rojas, Javier Assad, and Jordan Wicks in a trade for Jesus Luzardo. This is in addition to their reported interest in Owen Caissie and James Traintos.

— Optimistic Cubs Fan (@HotStoveCubbies) December 16, 2024

The Marlins, holding a lot of pitching depth, appear open to moving Luzardo due to the anticipated return of Sandy Alcántara and the emergence of young arms like Eury Pérez and Braxton Garrett. 

For the Cubs, the acquisition of Luzardo would provide a formidable left-handed presence in their rotation and allow them flexibility with other pitchers, such as potentially shifting Javier Assad to the bullpen. 

Photo Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images