Sandy Alcantara: Could He Be the Braves’ Missing Piece?
The 2025 season was a stark disappointment for the Atlanta Braves. Entering the year with World Series aspirations, the team stumbled to a 76-86 record, finishing fourth in the National League East and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2017. Responding to this underperformance, the Braves had a busy offseason, bringing in players like Robert Suarez, Mike Yastrzemski, Mauricio Dubon, Martin Perez, Jorge Mateo, and Jonah Heim. They also secured the return of Ha-Seong Kim and Raisel Iglesias.
Addressing a Key Need: Starting Pitching
Despite these additions, many analysts believe the Braves aren’t finished building. A significant area of need remains: a frontline starting pitcher. The current rotation could benefit from a substantial boost, and the Braves are now being heavily linked to potential trade targets.
Recent reports, including an article by Mike Axisa of CBS Sports, highlight Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara as a prime candidate to be moved before the 2026 MLB trade deadline. Axisa notes the Marlins’ willingness to move starting pitching, stating, “The Marlins moved two veteran-ish starters this offseason (Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers) but hung on to Alcantara, who was a prime trade candidate last winter and again at last year’s trade deadline. He instead remains in Miami. How long will that last? I don’t think it will be too much longer given his $17 million salary this year and $21 million club option next year.”
Why the Braves Make Sense for Alcantara
Axisa identifies the Braves, along with the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants, as potential destinations for Alcantara. For Atlanta, the logic is clear. Adding a pitcher of Alcantara’s caliber would significantly strengthen the top of their rotation, bolstering their chances of returning to contention in 2026.
While Alcantara had a challenging 2025 season (11-12 record, 5.36 ERA in 31 games), his past performance is undeniable. The former Cy Young Award winner has demonstrated the ability to dominate, and a change of scenery could be just what he needs to rediscover his form. A revitalized Alcantara would be a game-changer for the Braves.
Competition for Alcantara Will Be Fierce
However, the Braves won’t have a clear path to acquiring Alcantara. Multiple teams will likely be in the mix, particularly those contending for playoff spots. High-impact starting pitchers are always in demand, and Alcantara, at his best, is exactly that. Atlanta will face stiff competition to land him.
The potential trade for Sandy Alcantara represents a significant opportunity for the Braves to address a critical need and elevate their roster. Whether they can successfully navigate the competition and bring Alcantara to Atlanta remains to be seen, but the possibility is certainly intriguing. Keep an eye on this developing story as the 2026 season approaches.
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