The New York Mets made headlines this offseason by acquiring superstar Juan Soto and re-signing slugger Pete Alonso. These major moves overshadowed the additions of Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes to their pitching staff. However, with Montas now facing an extended absence, the Mets may need to add another starting pitcher. Their aggressive approach—bringing in Soto while giving Alonso an opt-out clause after this season—signals a win-now mentality. Even before Montas’ injury, the rotation lacked a clear ace, adding pressure given the team’s high expectations. In a recent analysis of potential trade candidates and destinations, Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer speculated that Sandy Alcántara could be a target for the Mets.
Sandy Alcántara missed the 2024 season with the Miami Marlins while recovering from Tommy John surgery. Despite this, he is a two-time All-Star and the 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner. With the Marlins in rebuilding mode, he could be available via trade. His performance following his Cy Young season was underwhelming, potentially lowering his trade value. Alcántara is in the middle of a five-year, $56 million extension signed in 2021, with two seasons remaining and a $21 million club option for 2027. Acquiring him would allow the Mets to replace Montas with a legitimate ace while securing a key piece for the future.
Alcántara holds a career 3.32 ERA across 146 games. In his outstanding 2022 season, he led Major League Baseball with 228 2/3 innings pitched and six complete games, posting a 2.28 ERA with 207 strikeouts. With his trade value at an all-time low, acquiring Alcántara could be a high-reward move for the Mets.
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