On the morning of December 22, Paul McIntosh discovered he was part of a major trade involving the Philadelphia Phillies and Miami Marlins after receiving multiple missed calls from teammates and team officials. The deal, finalized that day, sent prospects Starlyn Caba and Emaarion Boyd to Miami in exchange for pitcher Jesús Luzardo and McIntosh, marking a significant career moment for the minor-league catcher.
McIntosh expressed enthusiasm about joining the Phillies alongside Luzardo, appreciating the opportunity to contribute within a new organization. His excitement stemmed not only from being traded but also from sharing that experience with a highly skilled left-handed pitcher who had already made an impact in Philadelphia.
It was a surreal feeling seeing that Luzardo was also part of that trade,
McIntosh said last week,
and being a part of that trade was just super cool. I was just very excited to get over here and get to work.
Jesús Luzardo’s Impact Solidifies Phillies’ Rotation Strength
Since joining the Phillies, Jesús Luzardo has delivered a strong pitching performance, contributing significantly to a rotation already regarded for its talent. In 16 starts, Luzardo posted a 4.08 ERA and averaged over ten strikeouts per nine innings. His standout outing came with a 6 2/3 inning shutout at Citizens Bank Park against the New York Mets, helping Philadelphia reclaim first place in the National League East.
McIntosh’s Development Continues at Double-A Reading
Meanwhile, Paul McIntosh has been honing his skills with the Double-A Reading Fightin Phils throughout the season. Despite missing time in late April and early May, he has remained an integral part of the team’s catching rotation. Over 26 games, McIntosh compiled a .697 OPS with four home runs and demonstrated his value in recent games, including a 2-for-4 performance with two RBIs and a run scored at FirstEnergy Stadium.
Fightin Phils manager Al Pedrique praised McIntosh’s dedication and improvements since arriving to Reading. Pedrique highlighted how McIntosh has been working on his swing and defensive abilities, signaling a positive trajectory in his overall game.
So far, he’s been great,
Pedrique said.
Definitely, since he’s got here, he’s been making some adjustments on his swing. He’s doing some work in the cage, extra work behind the plate defensively. We’ve seen some improvement since he got here.
From Undrafted Prospect to Rising Minor-League Contributor
Originally drafted in the 34th round by the Angels in 2018, McIntosh chose to play college baseball at Motlow State Community College and West Virginia before signing with Miami as an undrafted free agent in 2021. His time in Miami’s system allowed him to advance to Triple-A by 2023, though he spent this full season in Double-A refining his game.
Known for his power-hitting ability, McIntosh amassed 14 home runs over 77 minor-league games in 2023. However, the Phillies organization noted his tendency to hit a high number of ground balls for a power hitter, prompting adjustments to help him lift the ball more consistently. Early results show a decline in ground-ball rate from 47.4% last year to just under 40% this year, which could enhance his offensive impact as the season progresses.
There’s not many catchers that can hit and then hit with power,
McIntosh said,
so it’s nice to have that in the back pocket.
Focusing Fully on Catching to Maximize Potential
After seeing time in the outfield during the previous year, McIntosh’s role this season has been confined to catcher and designated hitter duties, reflecting the Phillies’ desire for him to concentrate on defensive development. Pedrique recognized the catcher’s progress in key areas such as throwing, receiving, blocking, and handling the pitching staff, noting his consistent professionalism.
He is a true professional,
Pedrique commented.
He knows the things that he needs to continue working and getting better, and he’s great in the clubhouse.
Leadership Through Experience and Work Ethic
At 27 years old and in his fifth minor-league season, McIntosh brings valuable veteran presence to the Reading roster. Pedrique trusts him to set a strong example for younger players by balancing quiet leadership with the ability to speak up when necessary, emphasizing work ethic and professionalism as his guiding traits.
He seems like a very quiet guy, but when it’s time to speak up, he’s not afraid,
Pedrique remarked.
Obviously, he’s been around long enough where he can help the young guys. His work ethic, for me, that’s how you lead by example, and that’s what he does on a daily basis. So as an organization, we’re very happy to have him.
McIntosh Embraces the Phillies’ Winning Culture
Although McIntosh was not the headline player in the trade, he feels fortunate to join a successful and well-managed organization. The Phillies’ recent achievements resonate throughout the club, creating a positive environment for developing talent like McIntosh, who values being part of the team.
This is a fantastic organization,
McIntosh said.
They run the ship well. Obviously, they have a lot of great players, and it’s just an honor and a privilege to be a part of that group.