The Miami Marlins have a long history of trading away their most accomplished players. Some of those decisions were more logical than others, but the pattern is undeniable. It could soon be Sandy Alcantara‘s turn in advance of Thursday’s 6:00 p.m. ET MLB trade deadline.

The Marlins do not need to force a trade that they’re uncomfortable with. Alcantara remains under contract for 2026 ($17.3M salary) and 2027 ($21M club option). There is a good chance that his performance and consistency will improve as he gets further removed from Tommy John surgery, though there’s also some risk that injuries or natural decline could continue to erode his value.

Contending teams who are reportedly willing to deal young talent for immediate starting rotation reinforcements include the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants.

 

July 28, 10:30 a.m. ET

Alcantara continues to be listed as the Marlins’ probable starting pitcher for Tuesday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals.

If Bob Nightengale’s reporting below is to be believed, they would have very little to gain from letting him take the mound again before the deadline. The Marlins could simply scratch him at any point before first pitch and pivot to a bullpen game if trade negotiations intensify.

 

July 27, 10:30 a.m. ET

Trade interest in Alcantara has “soared since his last start with teams now convinced he will be moved by the July 31 deadline,” according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

Alcantara went a season-high seven innings in that July 23 outing against the San Diego Padres, allowing one unearned run. It was only the second time in 2025 that he’s held an opponent without any walks or hit-by-pitches. He also induced a pair of his signature ground ball double plays.

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