Jake Burger Traded In Unexpected Deal

Jake Burger is on the move again. The former White Sox fan favorite is now a Texas Ranger. Three prospects will go to the Miami Marlins in exchange for the 28-year-old infielder as a result of last night's trade.

Burger's 2024 Season

Burger had a solid but unspectacular 2024 season with the Marlins. He hit 29 home runs and drove in 76 but struck out 150 times. He was also only 3% better than league average offensively. That said, many of his underlying metrics are still superb. He was far above MLB average in categories like bat speed, hard-hit%, barrel%, and average exit velocity last season per Baseball Savant.

While he was one of Miami's best hitters last season, the organization did not see him as part of their long-term plans. Connor Norby and Deyvison De Los Santos are both infielders already in the Marlins organization who are younger than Burger. They likely fit Miami's future timeline better than him. Burger was expendable as a result and will now head to the Rangers.

Burger's Fit In Texas

Texas is a much better fit for Burger's skills. The Rangers got minimal production out of their DH spot last season, as their DH's combined to hit just .204 with 15 home runs and a .585 OPS. Burger's power will immediately upgrade that position in the Rangers lineup. He can also play third or first base when starters Josh Jung and Nathaniel Lowe need a day off. Burger has four more seasons of control left, so he can now be a building block in what Texas hopes to achieve moving forward.

Jake Eder's Disappointing White Sox Tenure

Burger's run in Miami ended up being relatively short-lived. And if Jake Eder's recent performance is any indication, he likely will not remain with the White Sox organization for much longer either. Eder is coming off a terrible season in which he posted a 6.61 ERA and 1.68 WHIP in 24 starts over the AA and AAA levels. It is worth noting that he struck out 122 batters in 109 innings, but it was still a rough campaign for him. 2025 will be a pivotal season for Eder's career. 

Final Word

It is tough to say which team won the Jake Burger for Jake Eder trade. Burger was not a Marlin for long but was traded for three prospects who could eventually help Miami in the future. Eder is still with the White Sox organization but is running out of time to make a name for himself. He must show significant progress and development in 2025, or his career with the White Sox could be over before it starts.