The New York Yankees were dealt a major setback when ace pitcher Gerrit Cole underwent Tommy John surgery in March, effectively ending his season and leaving a sizable void in the starting rotation.
Even so, the Yankees have stayed competitive, currently leading the AL East and remaining in the hunt for a World Series berth. But as the trade deadline approaches, many around the league expect the Yankees to pursue more pitching depth.
One of the top names on their radar is Miami Marlins right-hander Sandy Alcantara, a pitcher they’ve been linked to for some time and who is likely to be available as the Marlins shift into full rebuild mode.
Sandy Alcantara: A Familiar Trade Candidate
Even before the 2025 season began, Fox Sports’ Deesha Thosar identified Alcantara as a strong candidate to join the Yankees’ rotation. Thosar correctly predicted that Miami would continue to struggle, making their few remaining stars—like Alcantara—trade chips.
“With another rebuilding year underway and fans growing restless, Alcantara is likely to be moved before preseason football starts,” Thosar wrote.
Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller recently named Alcantara the top pitcher on the market, despite his slow return from Tommy John surgery. The former Cy Young winner has struggled with a 7.89 ERA so far in 2025 but has remained healthy and is gradually regaining his form. His fastball and sinker velocities are back to their pre-injury levels, and he’s gone over 100 pitches in multiple starts.
Alcantara is under contract for $17.3 million per year through 2026, with a $21 million club option for 2027—a deal that may still appeal to the Yankees if he continues trending upward.
Other Options If Alcantara Falls Through
If the Yankees pass on Alcantara due to cost or performance concerns, there are other potential trade targets. Thosar suggested Michael King as a logical alternative. The former Yankee is familiar with the team and would bring a much smaller salary—just $4 million for 2025.
Another possibility is a long-term investment in Mariners starter Luis Castillo. While the financial commitment would be higher—roughly $70 million through 2027—he could become a key rotation piece, especially if Cole’s recovery carries into next season.
“It would be a bigger gamble, but it might be what the Yankees need to stabilize their rotation for the future,” Thosar wrote.
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