Marlins’ Sandy Alcantara Emerging as Prime Trade Candidate

MIAMI, Fla. — With the MLB trade deadline still three months away, Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner, has emerged as a prominent trade candidate. After missing the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, the Marlins ace has returned to the mound this year, featuring a 4.70 ERA across three starts.

During his absence, the Miami Marlins underwent significant roster changes, parting ways with key players in an effort to rebuild. With Alcantara under contract through 2027 and the team still in the rebuilding stages, the likelihood of a trade seems high. Despite his current numbers not reflecting his peak performance, Alcantara’s strong ground ball rate and favorable advanced metrics suggest a potential return to form.

Alcantara’s numbers this season include a 3.86 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) and a 19% strikeout rate. Though these figures may raise eyebrows, they are promising in the long term. Throughout his full seasons since his debut in 2019, Alcantara has maintained a solid 3.33 ERA and consistently been a workhorse, throwing at least 184.2 innings each year. His durability makes him an attractive option for contending teams looking to shore up their rotations.

Financially, Alcantara remains an appealing acquisition with a salary of $17 million for the next two years, making him less expensive than many other pitchers in the market. This contract flexibility, combined with his impressive length of control, further boosts his trade value.

As teams like the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and San Diego Padres eye pitching improvements, Alcantara’s stock is expected to rise, especially if he regains his form as the season progresses. Recent discussions among reporters suggest that the Marlins have yet to fully commit to moving Alcantara this season, with internal debates ongoing about the timing of any potential trade.

Alcantara himself has expressed a desire to stay in Miami, stating, “I’m [just] a player. If they want to trade me for a bag, they can trade me.” His willingness to remain with the team reflects the uncertainty surrounding his future, particularly in light of the Marlins’ strategic direction.

A survey conducted by MLB Trade Rumors showed that fans are split on when the Marlins should trade Alcantara. As of Friday, nearly 50% of respondents recommended listening to offers immediately, while around 40% cautioned to wait until closer to the deadline to gauge his performance further.

As the 8-10 Marlins strive for a better season and remain close to contention for a Wild Card spot, Alcantara’s situation will undoubtedly be a focal point of conversation throughout the baseball community. The team faces a critical decision; trading him sooner may maximize their return, especially if prospects show interest. Yet, allowing him to validate his health and performance may change the landscape come July.

Ultimately, the Marlins must weigh their options carefully. A move could lead to immediate assets that aid in building for the future, whereas patience might yield a greater reward if Alcantara finds his footing as the season develops. With so many factors in play, the future of Sandy Alcantara remains uncertain, yet pivotal for the Marlins’ rebuilding efforts.