A’s top prospect Jesus Luzardo draws raves, appears lock for rotation
Even if their pitching plans weren’t wildly up in the air, the A’s would feature prominent prospect Jesus Luzardo front and center at some point this season.
As it is, the 21-year-old — who has only worked in four games at the Triple-A level — might well be on the front end of Oakland’s rotation to start the season. Scouts who have seen him believe Luzardo will be in the running for the league’s Rookie of the Year award.
“He’s the real deal,” one National League scout said. “Zero doubt about it.”
Luzardo draws heady comparisons. Even during his amateur days, observers said he reminded them of former Twins left-handers Johan Santana, a two-time Cy Young winner, and Francisco Liriano.