Yankees’ Alcantara pursuit gets a boost from Marlins’ strategic uncertainty

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With the Marlins suffering a strategic ambiguity, the Yankees’ pursuit of Sandy Alcantara gets a fresh boost.

While the Yankees navigate through a maze of rotation injuries and inconsistency, a compelling answer to their pitching woes might be taking shape down in Miami. As the Marlins contemplate the future of their 2022 NL Cy Young winner Sandy Alcantara, the Yankees face a strategic crossroads—and waiting until the traditional July trade deadline might prove too late for a team with championship aspirations.

The Yankees, currently 9-7 and battling for AL East supremacy, find themselves managing a starting rotation in shambles. Gerrit Cole, Marcus Stroman, Clarke Schmidt, and Luis Gil have all hit the injured list for extended periods. Despite Max Fried’s impressive start in pinstripes, the rotation’s collective ERA through 15 games sits at a dismal league-worst 5.40.

Though the offense continues keeping the Yankees competitive, the pressing question isn’t whether New York needs pitching reinforcements, but rather if general manager Brian Cashman can strike swiftly and decisively enough to secure a genuine game-changer.

Alcantara: Rebuilding form with clear upside

Following a complete 2024 season absence while recovering from Tommy John surgery, Alcantara has cautiously rejoined Miami’s rotation. His first three 2025 starts have yielded 15.1 innings with a 4.70 ERA, 12 strikeouts, and eight walks.

While these numbers don’t immediately dazzle, deeper metrics reveal encouraging signs. His four-seam fastball velocity averages 97.4 mph—approaching his pre-surgery 98 mph standard. Statcast data indicates his command remains somewhat inconsistent, though scouts broadly agree such variability is expected during this rehabilitation phase.

Marlins manager Clayton McCullough assessed his ace’s progress, noting, “Sandy has been solid. He’s been good. The more times he gets back out there… we’ll continue to see the Sandy that everyone is accustomed to.”

Between 2019 and 2023, Alcantara dominated National League pitching statistics, leading in innings pitched (858.1) and complete games (12), establishing himself as among baseball’s most durable and efficient starters. This stamina represents precisely what the current Yankees rotation desperately lacks.

Miami’s indecision creates opportunity

The Marlins haven’t committed either way regarding Alcantara’s availability, creating a potential advantage for proactive suitors like New York. According to reporting from The Athletic’s Will Sammon, Miami insiders reveal the organization “hasn’t yet decided whether they’ll deal Sandy Alcantara.”

Though projected to miss playoff contention in the competitive NL East, Miami entered April’s third week sporting a respectable 8-7 record with optimism surrounding their developing young arms. Sustaining momentum against divisional powerhouses Atlanta and Philadelphia, however, remains improbable.

Should the Marlins begin faltering, Alcantara’s market value—especially with three controllable years remaining—could quickly dominate trade discussions. The Yankees have an opportunity to engage early, establishing dialogue before competitive bidding escalates demands.

Strategic advantages of early action

Unlike typical midseason rentals, Alcantara offers contractual stability through 2026, with a team-friendly $21 million club option for 2027. This extended control significantly enhances his value compared to standard deadline acquisitions.

For the Yankees, currently navigating concerns about Carlos Rodon’s long-term durability and Stroman’s 2026 opt-out clause, Alcantara would provide sustained rotation stability alongside Fried. His impact would extend beyond the current season, potentially anchoring the staff through multiple championship campaigns.

The Yankees possess the prospective capital necessary for such a significant transaction. Miami would undoubtedly demand premium talent in return. The Yankees could structure an offer around outfielders like Jasson Domínguez or Everson Pereira, shortstop Roderick Arias, or promising pitchers such as Ben Hess or Brock Selvidge.

While surrendering multiple top-10 prospects represents a substantial investment, acquiring a controllable ace carries immense organizational value. A creatively balanced package featuring MLB-ready talent and developmental prospects might appeal to Miami’s rebuilding strategy.

Limited alternatives carry greater risk

Should Alcantara prove unavailable or Miami decide against trading him, the Yankees face significantly less attractive options. Shane Bieber continues rehabilitation from shoulder issues with uncertain outcomes. Eduardo Rodríguez and Michael King present alternative targets, but with concerning contract or durability limitations. The free agent market offers nothing comparable.

Conversely, Alcantara brings postseason experience, Cy Young credentials, and realistic potential to recapture dominant form precisely when the Yankees would need it most.

Even if he returns to 90% of his pre-surgery capabilities, that version of Alcantara could fundamentally alter October matchups—when innings-consuming starters capable of neutralizing elite lineups become invaluable assets.

Decision window narrowing

Cashman has historically demonstrated deadline boldness, but this season may demand unprecedented early aggression. The Yankees cannot afford to rely on temporary solutions or bullpen games throughout the summer months.

With Miami maintaining its evaluative stance, now represents the ideal moment for New York to establish preliminary frameworks. By closely monitoring Alcantara’s progression while maintaining consistent communication with Miami’s front office, the Yankees can position themselves advantageously for when the Marlins signal readiness to deal.

Whether that moment arrives in May or July could ultimately determine the Yankees’ championship viability this season—and their prospects for returning to the World Series.

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