MLB trade rumors never sleep! The early parts of the season are prime time for discussions, even though the trade deadline may still seem far off. The regular season is going deep, and the teams are already evaluating their needs, and players’ performances (or struggles) are being closely monitored. It’s never too early to start speculating about potential trades, especially when you have big names like Sandy Alcantara making headlines. The Marlins are no exception…

Sandy Alcantara, as one of the top pitchers in the league, is naturally going to be a name that comes up in trade discussions. He could be a good value addition for any team. Especially given his Cy Young pedigree and the long-term value he brings as a starting pitcher. Alcantara is under contract with the Marlins through 2027, with a very team-friendly deal ($56 million for 5 years). This makes him even more appealing to contending teams. Why? Because they can get several more years of elite pitching at a reasonable price.

All these made the Cubs, Red Sox, and Mets potential contenders to land Alcantara.

Well, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal thinks otherwise. “Teams are going to want to see more.”

As per Rosenthal, Alcantara needs to prove himself this season. He had his TJ surgery last year. So, it is up to the teams to check if he can still add the same value as before. Well, you could be Noah Syndergaard and Jose Fernandez, who came back stronger after their surgery. However, there are inherent risks. This season, Alcantara has yet to showcase his full potential for the Marlins.

Sandy Alcantara has stayed low so far this season, with an ERA of 4.70. Hence, it’s no surprise that teams are cautious about making a trade for him right now. While the potential is still there, given his elite stuff and past dominance, this season’s struggles make him a more complicated trade candidate. His Cy Young award-winning season in 2023 saw him post 197 SOs with a 2.28 ERA! So, it might be too early for the suitors to go for him.

However, things might work differently for the Marlins. For starters, if the Marlins fall out of contention in the next season or two, it might make sense for them to trade Alcantara. To a team looking to add an ace for a playoff push. Especially if this trade can help the Marlins pick a few quality prospects who could contribute in the short or long term.

A journey to New York for Alcantara is on the cards

While Rosenthal believes that it would take time for Alcantara to find his new home, there are a few options he could choose from. Well, trading for Alcantara offers a unique aspect. For Alcantara, it’s not just about trading for one of the best pitchers in baseball — it’s about finding a team that can maximize his potential and fit his contract. Moreover, the trade should also offer the Marlins a strong return if they decide to trade him. So, which team seems to be the most logical destination for Alcantara?

Remember the Yankees’ devastated pitching lineup after losing Gerrit Cole and Luis Gil? They had some excellent pitching, but they’ve been looking for a true ace to carry the rotation. Expected move, especially eyeing the postseason. The Bronx is always in “win-now” mode. Additionally, with their deep pockets, they could afford to make the trade for a player like Alcantara, who still has years of control left. However, who will be the Yankees’ bait for the Marlins? Marcus Stroman? Nothing is impossible in baseball. Let’s see where it goes for the Marlins.

So, the Marlins are balancing over a rope now! If Alcantara’s struggles persist into June and July, it may be more difficult for the Marlins to get the big return they would have hoped for. However, if he regains his Cy Young form or even gets close to it by midseason, things could work for the Marlins!

Do you think Alcántara will bounce back to elite form, or could his struggles last longer than expected? Let us know in the comments below.