Yankees pivot to Cardinals’ pitcher as Marlins hold back Alcantara trade

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Trade roadblocks are pushing the Yankees to rethink the Alcantara pursuit and shift focus to the Cardinals’ pitcher.

As the New York Yankees aim to fortify a pitching staff plagued by injuries and inconsistencies, a potential blockbuster trade for Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara appears to be stalling. Once viewed as an ideal solution to stabilize the rotation, his status has become more complicated due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery and the Marlins’ current roster strategy.

Marlins hold back on Alcantara trade potential

The Yankees’ interest in Sandy Alcantara has been no secret. With ace Gerrit Cole sidelined due to elbow issues and lefty Carlos Rodon’s inconsistency raising concerns, the need for a front-line starter has become urgent. Clarke Schmidt and Will Warren have also shown flashes but lack long-term dependability, creating pressure on the Yankees’ front office to find reinforcements.

However, the Marlins have already moved left-hander Jesus Luzardo to Philadelphia and are signaling their intent to retain Alcantara—for now. According to Baseball Tonight analyst Buster Olney, “The Marlins are gonna want absolutely top dollar and the Yankees would have to compete against a lot of teams for Sandy at a time when their farm system is down.”

With Alcantara under club control through 2026 (plus a 2027 club option), Miami has little incentive to sell low on a pitcher returning from surgery. The right-hander missed the 2024 season, reducing his immediate trade value, yet the Marlins are content to wait for his rebound before entertaining serious offers.

Another major barrier is the potential sacrifice in such a trade. The Yankees are unwilling to give up their top prospects, such as Jasson Dominguez or Spencer Jones. As a result, New York may reconsider its midseason strategy. Instead of waiting for Alcantara’s value to rise—or risking being outbid at the deadline—the Yankees are exploring more attainable options to plug holes in the rotation and stay competitive in the AL East.

Cardinals’ Fedde emerges as realistic target

With the Alcantara talks on ice, attention has shifted to St. Louis, where the Cardinals could become one of the key sellers by July. Among their most tradeable assets is right-hander Erick Fedde, a 32-year-old veteran on an expiring $7.5 million contract.

“Of all the Cardinals players who could be shipped to the Bronx, it’s Fedde that makes the most sense,” wrote Cardinals insider Zach Pressnell. “New York added a few huge contracts to its payroll in the offseason, so trading for Arenado or Gray might not be the most likely option.”

Fedde, while not overpowering, has become a reliable innings-eater. With a 4.68 ERA and a 5.0 bWAR since the start of 2024, he fits the mold of a cost-effective acquisition who can keep the Yankees’ rotation afloat until Cole returns.

Notably, Fedde has been consistent since returning to MLB via the White Sox last year after a stint in the KBO. His ability to limit damage despite low strikeout numbers has made him an appealing depth option. In 32.2 innings this season, he’s struck out just 17 but managed to hold opponents to minimal scoring, a skill that could prove vital for a Yankees squad eyeing postseason survival.

Cost-controlled flexibility appeals to Yankees

The Yankees’ offseason spending spree—including the massive acquisition of Max Fried—means they’re likely less inclined to take on high-dollar, long-term contracts midseason. That rules out targets like Nolan Arenado or Sonny Gray, both of whom would command significant financial and prospect capital.

Fedde’s appeal lies in his flexibility. He doesn’t require a long-term financial commitment, and the Yankees could likely land him by parting with a few mid-tier prospects. In a year where budget balance and roster depth are equally vital, Fedde could be a quiet but smart addition.

Bullpen help is also on the table. Ryan Helsley, the Cardinals’ closer, could be another name to watch. But with Clay Holmes, Luke Weaver, and Ian Hamilton performing well in the back end, the Yankees’ most pressing need remains in the rotation.

What comes next?

If a deal for Alcantara resurfaces later this summer, the Yankees may still be in the mix—but only if they can get creative with their offer. In the meantime, smaller moves like Fedde could help stabilize the roster and buy time.

One thing is certain: Brian Cashman and the Yankees front office are actively pivoting. As the July trade deadline nears, the Bronx Bombers must weigh upside versus availability, short-term needs versus long-term health.

Fedde may not be the ace fans dreamed of, but in a season already riddled with uncertainty, a reliable arm could be the most valuable piece of all.

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