There are many surprises in the Major League Baseball trade market, some of which bring us joy and some of which bring us sorrow. But this season, Sandy Alcantara, the Dominican star of the Miami Marlins, stands out as a strong contender. Rumors swirl in the air of a possible intention from the New York Mets to pursue the $56 million star. To make sure they make the right trade to strengthen their starting rotation, the Mets are moving cautiously forward.
However, the Miami Marlins aren’t staying back. They would demand a larger package of prospects in exchange for Alcantara if they were to release their Cy Young winner. A few names that come up as their targets include third baseman Brett Baty; pitcher Brandon Sproat; and Jett Williams.
It is safe to assume that the New York Mets will have to pay a hefty price to acquire Sandy Alcantara. Why not? Alcantara has been quite impressive this season as he went 2-3 with an 8.31 ERA, 6 G, and 26.0 IP along with 19 strikeouts at a 1.65 WHIP. The Marlins are therefore trying to acquire some players who can completely replace Alcantara and cover the void on their roster.
However, a question remains: will the Mets like to lose one of their cornerstones–Brett Baty? Despite not having any impactful knock this year, the left-hander holds immense potential. With the Marlins lacking the desired infield offense depth, Baty can be a great bet for them. But it’s not just him the Marlins will be looking for at the moment.
Jett Williams of the Mets is one of the top prospects who has shined in the minors, both with the bat and glove. He is quite athletic and may provide the desired depth in the Marlins’ infield. Lastly, Brandon Sproat’s remarkable fastballs are what the Marlins are interested in. Based on his recent performance, Sproat may end up on the Marlins’ roster even though he might not be as effective as Alcantara. And the Marlins’ pitching development system will do the rest for him.
Therefore, it’s very clear that in exchange for Sandy Alcantara, the Mets might have to cut ties with several young talents. But given the lack of depth in rotation, there’s a need to try something that may work like a charm, although that won’t come cheap at any cost. Meanwhile, amid the rumors, the name of another team is coming up, which is looking for Sandy Alcantara—Chicago Cubs, maybe?
Chicago Cubs emerge as a surprising contender for the Mets’ $56 million star
Currently leading with 19-13 at the National League Central, the Chicago Cubs are urged to trade for the former Cy Young winner. The reason? Well, their pitching lineup has been marred by a series of injuries, including players like Justin Steele, who has recently undergone surgery on his left elbow. The Cubs suffered a significant blow, but it got worse when Steele did not live up to the hype after surgery, pitching 26 innings with an 8.31 ERA. It’s a worrying sign for the Cubs and that’s why they were urged to trade for Sandy Alcantara.
Although Alcantara himself hasn’t lived up to the hype, a trade may create some positive impact on his performance, giving him enough scope to improve. However, the Cubs seem to be on their toes to get Alcantara, without bothering much about sacrificing some of the prospects for a player who can provide long-term benefits. But that’s not all!
The inclusion of Alcantara will not only fill the gap in pitching, but can also strengthen their chances of making it to the playoffs. With 90 more games left for the Cubs before the July 31 deadline, the right-hander can turn out to be one of the better starters for them this season.
Which team, according to you, may get Sandy Alcantara?
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