National League Rising Star In Trade Rumors Reportedly Would Want To Play For Red Sox

Boston could use a notable upgrade to the rotation

The Boston Red Sox entered the offseason in desperate need of multiple upgrades to the rotation in order to be competitive in a stacked American League East.

Thus far, Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has added right-hander Lucas Giolito -- who is likely going to undergo season-ending elbow surgery after a spring training injury -- and traded left-hander Chris Sale for second baseman Vaughn Grissom. 

In other words, they have one less starter than they did a year ago, largely due to principal owner John Henry handicapping his new leader of baseball operations with a moderate budget.

One of the ways to get around that budget would be to trade for a young, controllable starter. The Miami Marlins are among the teams most likely to deal from their deep pitching staff -- with Jesús Luzardo rumored to be available for the right price. The 26-year-old reportedly would be very open to playing for the Red Sox if the opportunity presented itself.

"I covered Jesús when he was in Oakland and trust me, he would be interested in pitching in Boston," The Boston Globe's Julian McWilliams said on WEEI's "Play Tessie" podcast. "I talked to him when he was here the last time he pitched and he was like 'Dude I've never pitched in a place like this. It was an amazing experience. The mound is just different.'"

It's important to note that Luzardo has no real say in whether he is traded or where he ends up but Boston would like any incoming talent to be excited about the opportunity of calling Fenway Park home. That would appear to be the case with Luzardo.

"There would be interest on his part if he were to be possibly dealt here," McWilliams continued.

Luzardo posted a 3.58 ERA with a 208-to-55 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .239 batting average against and a 1.22 WHIP in 178 2/3 innings for the Marlins last season.

The southpaw is under team control for the next three seasons, taking him through the 2026 season. At this juncture, it appears unlikely that the Red Sox make a splash in the trade market. 

However, Luzardo will come up in trade rumors again next offseason if he's not moved at the trade deadline and the fact that Luzardo is a fan of Fenway Park is worth remembering.

For Breslow to make a blockbuster trade for a budding young star, he'll want to know there is at least the possibility of getting a long-term extension signed down the line.

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