The Miami Marlins acquired left-hander A.J. Puk from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for outfielder JJ Bleday, the clubs announced Saturday.
Puk was selected sixth overall by Oakland in the 2016 draft. The 27-year-old began his career as a starter before transitioning to a bullpen role for the Athletics.
He enjoyed a career year in 2022, posting a 4-3 record with four saves, a 3.12 ERA, and 76 strikeouts across 66 1/3 innings (62 appearances).
Puk joins a revamped Marlins bullpen. The club has also traded for relievers JT Chargois and Matt Barnes this offseason.
Bleday was drafted fourth overall by the Marlins in 2019. The 25-year-old made his major-league debut in 2022, struggling to a .586 OPS with five home runs, 16 RBIs, and four stolen bases. He showcased his power potential at Triple-A, slugging 20 home runs in just 85 games last season.
Bleday will join an Athletics outfield group that also features Ramon Laureano, Seth Brown, and Esteury Ruiz.
