Red Sox Eye Sandy Alcántara to Strengthen Pitching Rotation

The Boston Red Sox are facing critical decisions as the offseason approaches. Following reports that infielder Alex Bregman intends to opt out of his contract and explore free agency, discussions have intensified about retaining him. Yet, the team’s immediate need extends beyond Bregman; they must also address their starting pitching rotation.

During the 2025 season, injuries severely impacted the Red Sox’s pitching depth. At the beginning of the season, expectations were high with a lineup that included Garrett Crochet, Brayan Bello, Lucas Giolito, Tanner Houck, Walker Buehler, and Kutter Crawford. Unfortunately, by the postseason, only Crochet and Bello remained healthy. Giolito, Houck, and Crawford were sidelined due to injuries, and Buehler was no longer part of the team.

As the team prepares for the upcoming season, adding at least one reliable starting pitcher has become a priority. Framber Valdez and Dylan Cease are two prominent free agents available on the market. Additionally, Joe Ryan from the Minnesota Twins has emerged as a potential trade candidate, following previous interest from the Red Sox prior to the 2025 trade deadline.

Another strong candidate for the Red Sox’s pitching needs is Sandy Alcántara of the Miami Marlins. According to Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller, Alcántara would be an ideal fit for Boston, given the Marlins’ need for an outfielder and the Red Sox’s pressing requirement for starting pitching.

The Marlins have a history of having quality starting pitchers but have struggled with a negative run differential since 2010. They could benefit from acquiring a corner outfielder or designated hitter, making a trade for Alcántara feasible. The Red Sox may be able to strike a deal, potentially involving pitchers like Edward Cabrera or Ryan Weathers, who are also on the Marlins’ roster.

Alcántara’s performance in 2025 was not stellar, posting a 5.36 ERA in 31 appearances after returning from a missed season in 2024. However, he had a respectable 4.14 ERA in 2023 and was the 2022 National League Cy Young Award winner, boasting a remarkable 2.28 ERA in 32 starts that year.

At just 30 years old, Alcántara is under a five-year contract worth $56 million, which includes a $21 million club option for 2027. If the Red Sox can successfully negotiate a new deal with Bregman while bringing in a talent like Alcántara, they could significantly improve their chances for the upcoming season.

As Boston looks to balance its roster, the focus will not only be on retaining key players but also on enhancing the pitching lineup to compete effectively in the league. The coming weeks will be pivotal for the Red Sox as they navigate these critical decisions.