Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said earlier this month that A.J. Puk being left-handed “wouldn’t be an issue” in picking his closer, per team reports.

Fantasy Impact

Puk’s in the mix to lock down ninth-inning duties in Arizona, and Lovullo isn’t sweating his southpaw status—unlike the right-handed leans of rivals Justin Martinez and Kevin Ginkel. After joining the D-backs via trade last year, Puk was lights-out—1.32 ERA, 0.73 WHIP, and a filthy 43:5 K:BB over 27.1 innings. Fantasy managers hunting saves should peg him as a prime contender—his dominance could trump tradition if he shines this spring.

A.J. Puk notched a save, striking out three over a clean inning in Fridays 7-4 victory over the Brewers.

Fantasy Impact

This performance was a showcase of efficiency and control, allowing just one hit and zero walks. Puk's season has been marked by a solid 2.91 ERA and a commendable 1.09 WHIP, with his strikeout prowess highlighted by an 11.1 K/9 rate. His ability to maintain a low BABIP (.272) and a strong strikeout-to-walk ratio (3.11) continues to make him a reliable option in fantasy leagues, particularly in formats that reward holds and strikeouts. Despite a few hiccups with blown saves earlier in the season, his recent form suggests growing reliability in save situations, enhancing his value in leagues where late-inning performance is critical.

A.J. Puk recorded the final two outs in Sunday's win over the Pirates.

Fantasy Impact

Puk came into the game in the ninth inning for Ryan Thompson. It remains a committee for saves for now in the Diamondbacks bullpen.

A.J. Puk is expected to join the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday.

Fantasy Impact

Puk was one of the first names traded earlier this week with the trade deadline next week. He'll hold a high leverage role in the Diamondbacks bullpen alongside Paul Sewald and Kevin Ginkel.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are in agreement on a deal to acquire left-handed reliever A.J. Puk from the Miami Marlins.

Fantasy Impact

This could be the first domino to fall for other trades to go down with the deadline next week. Puk should find himself in a high leverage role in the Diamondbacks bullpen alongside Paul Sewald. He has posted a 2.08 ERA since moving back to a full-time relief role.