Diamondbacks Acquire A.J. Puk from Marlins Ahead of Trade Deadline
- The Arizona Diamondbacks traded for left-handed pitcher A.J. Puk from the Miami Marlins.
- This move indicates that the Diamondbacks are positioning themselves as buyers as the trade deadline approaches.
- This trade is viewed as a strategic enhancement to their pitching roster.
PHOENIX (AP) — The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a strategic move ahead of the MLB trade deadline by acquiring left-handed pitcher A.J. Puk from the Miami Marlins. This trade indicates the D-backs' intent to bolster their roster as they aim for a strong finish to the season. Puk, 29, is expected to enhance the team's bullpen, having demonstrated reliability over the past three seasons with a 4.30 ERA and a 4-8 record in 32 appearances this year. The Diamondbacks, who are the defending National League champions, have shown significant improvement this season, currently holding a 53-50 record after a challenging start. The addition of Puk is seen as a crucial step in their efforts to remain competitive as the season progresses. In exchange for Puk, the Marlins received minor league third baseman Deyvison De Los Santos and outfielder Andrew Pintar. De Los Santos, 21, has been impressive in the minors, boasting a .325 batting average with 28 home runs and 84 RBIs across Double-A and Triple-A this season. His performance highlights the potential impact he could have in the future for the Marlins. Puk's contract status, which keeps him under team control through the 2026 season, likely influenced the Diamondbacks' willingness to part with a promising prospect like De Los Santos. With the MLB trade deadline looming on Tuesday, this trade marks a significant moment for both franchises as they navigate their respective paths for the remainder of the season.