Arizona Diamondbacks Bolster Bullpen with Acquisition of A.J. Puk
The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a notable move to strengthen their bullpen by acquiring left-handed reliever A.J. Puk from the Miami Marlins. In exchange, the Diamondbacks have sent prospects Deyvison De Los Santos and Andrew Pintar to Miami.
Puk's career has been marked by his versatility, initially beginning the season in the Marlins’ rotation before transitioning back to the bullpen after four starts. This year, as a reliever, Puk has posted an impressive 2.08 ERA, notching 33 strikeouts and just six walks over 30 1/3 innings. With an ERA+ of 109 across parts of five big-league seasons, Puk has demonstrated his value on the mound. He will remain under team control until the end of the 2026 season, providing Arizona with a long-term asset in their bullpen.
Puk's New Role with the Diamondbacks
For the Diamondbacks, the addition of Puk is a strategic move aimed at bolstering their late-inning relief corps. He is expected to serve as the primary lefty setup man, a pivotal role behind closer Paul Sewald. Puk’s effectiveness in a relief role bodes well for Arizona as they make a push for the playoffs.
The Diamondbacks currently hold a 53-50 record and find themselves just one game behind the San Diego Padres for the third and final wild-card spot in the National League. With nine teams in the NL within 5 1/2 games of the final wildcard berth, the competition is fierce, making every roster adjustment critical.
Prospects Headed to Miami
In return for Puk, the Marlins have acquired two promising prospects. Deyvison De Los Santos has shown significant power at the plate, hitting 28 home runs in a combined 87 games at Double- and Triple-A levels this season. His career slash line of .293/.343/.508 over four minor-league seasons underscores his potential as a future power hitter. This season, De Los Santos has demonstrated his versatility by playing at first base, third base, and as a designated hitter (DH).
Andrew Pintar, the other prospect heading to Miami, has also exhibited solid performance in the minors. With a .266/.355/.413 batting line across two minor-league campaigns, Pintar’s recent promotion to Double-A reflects his development trajectory. He has primarily played center field but has also seen time in left field and at second base, showcasing his defensive flexibility.
Strategic Implications of the Trade
This trade represents a strategic move for both teams. For Arizona, acquiring Puk fits into their immediate objective of securing a playoff spot while still adding a long-term piece to their bullpen. Meanwhile, the Marlins bolster their farm system with two high-upside prospects who could contribute to their major league roster in the coming years.
As the race for the National League wildcard spots intensifies, the Diamondbacks' investment in bolstering their bullpen with a proven reliever like Puk could pay significant dividends. Whether or not this move ultimately secures a playoff berth for Arizona remains to be seen, but it unquestionably marks an important step in their competitive strategy.