Jesus Luzardo is a starting pitcher for the Miami Marlins. In 2023, Jesus finished with 208 strikeouts, setting a record for most in a season by a lefty starter in Marlins history. In September 2024, MLB announced him as the Marlins’ nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, bestowed annually to the player who best represents the game of Baseball through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy, and positive contributions on and off the field.

 

Jesus — born in Lima, Peru — is 26 years old. His parents are originally from Venezuela, and he grew up in Parkland, FL, just about an hour north of Miami. He was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2016 Draft by the Washington Nationals and made his MLB debut in 2019 with the Oakland Athletics at the age of 21. He got traded to the Marlins in 2021, where he was able to return home. He’s won 21 games since joining the team, the 2nd most by any Marlins pitcher in that span.

 

When he’s not on the mound, Jesus is deeply involved in the community. He hosts a free youth clinic every offseason for the kids of Parkland at his alma mater, Stoneman Douglas H.S. Furthermore, Luzardo is a sponsor and volunteer at Challenger Baseball, a program that provides an opportunity for children with cognitive or physical disabilities to enjoy the full benefits of participation in baseball at a level structured to their abilities, with over 200 participants every year. He’s also a volunteer at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital, Camillus House and supports other non-profit organizations in South Florida like WOW Center Miami, Arc Broward and Boys and Girls Club of Broward County.

Jesus also sponsors the Chris Hixon Foundation, in memory of Mr. Chris Hixon - who was the athletic director at Marjory Stoneman Douglas H.S. and one of the 17 victims who were killed during the tragic events of Feb. 14, 2018. With Jesus’ support, the foundation provides athletic scholarships to 4-6 students in Broward County every year.