Overview
- Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young winner, has struggled in 2025 with a 2–4 record and an 8.42 ERA over seven starts after returning from Tommy John surgery.
- MLB executives overwhelmingly view Alcantara as the most likely major trade piece before the July 31 deadline, citing his potential to regain form and his affordable contract through 2026 with a 2027 option.
- The Miami Marlins, sitting at 14–22 and in last place in the NL East, are expected to trade Alcantara as part of their ongoing rebuild if his performance improves in the coming months.
- Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox is seen as the second-most likely trade candidate, with his elite speed, defensive metrics, and walk rates drawing interest despite a modest offensive start to 2025.
- Both the Marlins and White Sox are under pressure to capitalize on their stars' trade value as they focus on rebuilding their rosters for future success.