The New York Mets should aggressively pursue Sandy Alcantara during this offseason, recognizing the unique window to acquire an elite right-handed pitcher with Cy Young upside while the Miami Marlins remain open to discussions. Though the Marlins have expressed optimism about retaining Alcantara heading into 2026, the team's financial constraints and organizational trajectory present an opportunity for the Mets to pounce.
With Juan Soto now in the fold alongside Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, and Brandon Nimmo, adding a front-line starter like Alcantara could position New York as a genuine World Series contender. The following trade package represents a fair framework that addresses Miami's organizational needs while giving the Mets the ace-caliber pitcher they desperately need.
The Perfect Trade Package for Sandy Alcantara
The Mets should present the Marlins with the following trade offer:
Mets Receive:
- RHP Sandy Alcantara
Marlins Receive:
- SS/OF Jett Williams
- RHP Nolan McLean
- IF Ronny Mauricio
- 3B Jacob Reimer
- OF/1B Ryan Clifford
This package gives the Marlins a mix of both quantity and quality prospects spanning multiple levels of development. Jett Williams represents the crown jewel at shortstop and outfield versatility, while the pitching depth, headed by McLean, addresses Miami's rotation for years to come. Mauricio brings established upside after his ACL recovery, and Clifford has already proven he can perform at Triple-A.
The Marlins are famously desperate for young talent with controllable contracts, making this constellation of prospects far more valuable than standard trade packages for rental pitchers.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Both Sides
The Mets have demonstrated a willingness to trade from their prospect depth to address immediate roster needs, particularly after the Juan Soto acquisition signaled a win-now mentality. General Manager David Stearns has already shown he's willing to part with multiple prospects, as evidenced by the Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley trades at the 2025 deadline. Alcantara represents an even more impactful addition than any reliever could provide. The 29-year-old right-hander showed significant improvement in the second half of 2025, posting a 3.33 ERA after the All-Star break compared to a 7.22 mark before it. This resurgence is precisely the kind of stabilizing force that could carry the Mets through October.
For Miami, acquiring this package would accelerate its rebuild substantially. The Marlins have deliberately positioned themselves as a team focused on young talent and financial flexibility. While team owner Bruce Sherman suggested Alcantara might remain with the organization, Miami's leadership has not shut down conversations with potential suitors. The franchise is clearly open to exploring options if a compelling offer arrives.
This trade provides legitimate impact prospects rather than mere salary relief, giving Miami the foundation pieces necessary to remain competitive within the National League East's increasingly crowded landscape. Jett Williams alone represents the type of franchise cornerstone the Marlins covet, while McLean offers rotation depth for years to come. Kyle Stowers' breakout 2025 season demonstrates Miami's ability to develop young talent, and this package would give the front office multiple arrows to continue that trajectory.
