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A's reportedly trade for outfielder Starling Marte, send pitcher Jesús Luzardo to Marlins

The Oakland Athletics, currently in control of the second AL wild-card spot, are making a serious push. The A's are acquiring outfielder Starling Marte from the Miami Marlins for young pitcher Jesús Luzardo, per multiple reports.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reports the Marlins are covering Marte's remaining salary. That undoubtedly helped them unlock Luzardo, a former top prospect who has struggled in 2021, but is considered promising.

After helping boost the Marlins to a surprise postseason run in 2020, Marte is on the move again. Extension talks reportedly fizzled despite mutual interest in keeping the longtime Pirates outfielder in Miami.

Instead, Marte will try to help another fresh set of teammates reach October. One of the league’s most consistent stars, Marte hits for average, can play center field or left, and presents a constant threat on the bases. Approaching free agency for the first time in his career, he’s running a career best on-base percentage in 2021.

He is likely to man a corner outfield spot in Oakland to form a strong trio alongside center fielder Ramon Laureano and Mark Canha.

Miami Marlins' Starling Marte in action during a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Friday, July 16, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)
Miami Marlins' Starling Marte in action during a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Friday, July 16, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)

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