Miami, USA – The name of Dominican pitcher Sandy Alcántara has gained prominence in the conversations leading up to the upcoming trade deadline in Major League Baseball.
According to recent reports from Jim Bowden (The Athletic) and Bob Nightengale (USA Today), there is a “real possibility” that the star right-hander will be traded by the Marlins before the market closes this Thursday, due to a marked increase in interest in his services.
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Alcántara, winner of the National League Cy Young Award in 2022, has had a difficult season after returning from Tommy John surgery, with an ERA of 6.66. However, his impressive recent outing —seven scoreless innings against the Padres— has reactivated the interest of multiple teams that value his track record and potential.
Franchises like the Cubs, Blue Jays, Padres, Red Sox, and Mets have already been linked to the 29-year-old right-hander, whose current contract includes a salary of US$17 million for 2026 and a club option for US$21 million in 2027.
Although the Marlins are not required to make a trade immediately, they remain open to offers, but will not hesitate to postpone negotiations until the offseason if they do not receive a compelling proposal.
A market loaded with uncertainty and tension
The week leading up to the Deadline has been marked by speculation and prudence among club offices. The lack of clarity in the standings, especially after the inclusion of the third Wild Card, has generated an environment where several teams still haven’t decided whether to buy, sell, or remain inactive.
Teams like the Yankees face critical decisions after placing Aaron Judge on the injured list. New York, which led its division in May, is now in freefall and could seek reinforcements for the bullpen or rotation, depending on how long their star outfielder is absent.
In addition to Alcántara, other starting pitchers on the trade radar include Dylan Cease, Zac Gallen, Edward Cabrera, Luis Severino, and Néstor Cortés. As for relievers, names like Jhoan Durán, Pete Fairbanks, Raisel Iglesias, and Seranthony Domínguez also generate attention.
Expectations Regarding Potential Surprises
Historically, the Deadline has generated moves that directly impact the fight for the postseason, as happened with Juan Soto in 2022 or Manny Machado in 2018. Although a wave of superstars is not anticipated this year, strategic moves could be decisive.
A National League executive expressed: “I generally expect a lot of activity, but probably more on the scale of small to medium changes. I don’t expect really important players to move… although in baseball, anything can happen.”
The focus will be on Alcántara’s performance this Tuesday against the Cardinals, which could be his last appearance with the Marlins if negotiations are finalized in time.
Alcántara, winner of the National League Cy Young Award in 2022, has had a difficult season after returning from Tommy John surgery, with an ERA of 6.66. However, his impressive recent outing —seven scoreless innings against the Padres— has reactivated the interest of multiple teams that value his track record and potential.
Franchises like the Cubs, Blue Jays, Padres, Red Sox, and Mets have already been linked to the 29-year-old right-hander, whose current contract includes a salary of US$17 million for 2026 and a club option for US$21 million in 2027.
Although the Marlins are not required to make a trade immediately, they remain open to offers, but will not hesitate to postpone negotiations until the offseason if they do not receive a compelling proposal.
