Last year, the Marlins brought in Starling Marte on a move that was bold and fun and a little unexpected. They’re sending him out in the same way.
Miami’s Wednesday afternoon deal with Oakland will send Marte to the A’s in exchange for pitcher Jesús Luzardo—a one-for-one swap that trades one of the best rental bats on the market for an intriguing young pitcher. (Miami will pay the $4 million remaining on Marte’s contract.) For Oakland, it’s a clear message about how the team views its playoff chances, with the front office trying to make a statement as it holds on to a wild-card berth.