Breaking News: 28-Years Old Star Looking Like Lock For Miami Marlins Rotation

The original plan for the Oakland A’s was to incorporate A.J. Puk into their starting rotation last year, but they ultimately traded him instead. Initially, there was speculation during spring training that the A’s would transition Puk, a reliever, into a starting role. However, he was traded to the Miami Marlins in exchange for outfielder JJ Bleday.

Puk had a successful first season with the Marlins, recording a 3.97 ERA over 56 2/3 innings and securing 15 saves. Despite a challenging July where his ERA soared to 10.24 in 11 appearances, Puk demonstrated considerable prowess as a relief pitcher.

This spring, the Marlins are implementing the strategy the A’s had initially planned for Puk, preparing him for a potential role in the starting rotation. According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, Puk is considered a leading contender for one of the five available spots.

Originally drafted by the A’s as a starting pitcher in 2016, Puk’s career path shifted due to injuries and limited opportunities for development on the mound. However, after a successful 2022 season with Oakland as a relief pitcher, the A’s were keen to explore his potential as a starter once more.

During his tenure with Miami, Puk exhibited some of the best peripheral stats of his career, boasting a 12.39 K/9 rate and a 2.06 BB/9 rate. However, he struggled slightly with allowing more home runs, conceding 1.59 per nine innings. Nonetheless, home run rates often fluctuate and are not necessarily indicative of long-term performance issues.

Furthermore, the A’s are employing a similar approach with right-hander Mason Miller this year, prioritizing his health and development over immediate placement in the starting rotation. Miller, who excelled in the minor leagues, received a promotion to Oakland last season but was sidelined due to injury. This season, he may transition into a closer role, mirroring Puk’s journey with the A’s.