Mets Target Sandy Alcántara in Trade Talks as Deadline Approaches

NEW YORK, NY — The New York Mets are reportedly considering a trade for right-hander Sandy Alcántara as they prepare for the upcoming MLB season. With the Marlins currently out of contention and Alcántara under contract through 2026, the interest in the 29-year-old pitcher is growing.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted on Wednesday that teams are inquiring about Alcántara’s availability ahead of the trade deadline. ‘With the Marlins far from contending and his contract running through 2026 with a club option for 2027, teams are wondering whether Alcántara will be available,’ Passan wrote.

As the Mets reassess their pitching needs following the injuries to key starters, Alcántara is emerging as a compelling option. Former MLB player Harold Reynolds forecasted Alcántara would likely be traded before Opening Day, emphasizing the urgency for teams like the Mets to act.

Alcántara, who missed the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, has shown promising signs during spring training. He has maintained a perfect record through three Grapefruit League outings, not allowing a run while striking out five batters in 5 2/3 innings. His fastball reached 99 mph or higher in 24 of his 92 pitches, including hitting the 100 mph mark twice.

Unlike Dylan Cease, who is slated to reach free agency at the end of this season, Alcántara’s contract is more appealing to potential trading teams. He is owed $17.3 million over the next two seasons along with a club option worth $21 million for 2027, making him an attractive target for teams looking to retain talent long-term.

The potential trade for Alcántara could require the Mets’ top talent. Recent reports suggest they could part with their No. 1 prospect Brandon Sproat alongside No. 2 prospect Jett Williams and Luisangel Acuña to secure a deal for Cease. A similar package might be necessary to bring Alcántara into the fold.

Over his seven-year career, Alcántara has compiled a 3.32 ERA with 789 strikeouts across 900 2/3 innings. His impressive performance during the 2022 season, in which he led Major League Baseball with an 8.0 bWAR and logged a 2.28 ERA with 207 strikeouts, solidified his status as a top-tier pitcher.

Manny Gómez contributed to this report. For ongoing coverage and updates, consider subscribing to our publication.