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Phillies' Jesus Luzardo Announces Off-Field News on Thursday
© Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Phillies are in the midst of a busy offseason, facing several critical decisions that will shape their future and determine how long they can keep their championship window open.

Fortunately, they will still have left-hander Jesus Luzardo as a consistent presence in the rotation for 2026. The 28-year-old starting pitcher is entering the final year of team control before hitting unrestricted free agency.

Luzardo was acquired from the Miami Marlins last offseason and quickly established himself as a force at the top of the rotation. Across 32 appearances, he posted a 15–7 record with a 3.92 ERA and struck out 216 batters, proving to be one of Philadelphia’s most reliable arms.

He carried that consistency into the postseason, allowing just two earned runs in 7 2/3 innings while striking out eight. Unfortunately, a lack of run support led to two tough losses, contributing to the Phillies’ early exit from October baseball.

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jesus Luzardo (44) © Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

As Luzardo enters the offseason, he has begun to make moves beyond the baseball diamond. His Jesus Luzardo Family Foundation will host its second annual “Jesus Luzardo Golf Classic” on January 26 in Parkland, Florida. Luzardo appeared on MLB Network to announce that registration was open, noting that all proceeds would benefit local organizations.

“We’re going to have a great time, rack up some funds through my family foundation, and give back to causes that are near and dear to my heart here in South Florida. The Boys and Girls Club of South Florida and Arc Broward are big staples here in Broward County,” Luzardo said.

Luzardo’s journey to Philadelphia has already been a winding one. He was drafted in the third round of the 2016 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals before making his big-league debut with the Oakland Athletics in 2019.

After spending two seasons in Oakland, he was dealt to the Marlins, where he continued to develop as a reliable arm. By the time the Phillies acquired him last offseason, Luzardo had already been traded twice before, making the move to Philadelphia the third trade of his seven-year career.

That history underscores both his value and the uncertainty surrounding his future. As he enters the final year of team control, Luzardo is hoping to find a long-term home after 2026, and given how well he has thrived in Philadelphia, the Phillies could be the perfect fit.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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