Miami Marlins: A Marathon of Rebuilding
Since their unexpected Wild Card berth in 2023, the Miami Marlins have embraced yet another extensive rebuilding phase. New president of baseball operations Peter Bandix has meticulously stripped the roster down to its core, making significant trades at various points in the last couple of years. Last May, he traded three-time batting champion Luis Arráez, and at the trade deadline, infielder Jazz Chisholm Jr., starting pitcher Trevor Rogers, and relievers Tanner Scott and A.J. Puk were all moved. This winter, Bandix continued the overhaul by trading starting pitcher Jesús Luzardo and slugger Jake Burger. The sole remaining star player, 2022 National League Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcántara, missed the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery. Despite Alcántara’s absence, Bandix has held onto him, but with the Marlins projected to finish last in the National League East, the question of whether Alcántara will stay in Miami looms large.
The Giants’ Interest in Alcántara
On SI’s Dylan Sanders has suggested that the San Francisco Giants should already be gauging the availability of the Marlins’ ace, Sandy Alcántara. Sanders writes, "It will be a competitive trade market, but could be worth San Francisco’s time to be in. Given that the Giants have at least checked in on most of the starting pitchers on the market this offseason, it would be a shock if they didn’t at least start up a conversation with Miami about Alcántara." This recommendation stems from the Giants’ current roster situation, where despite a significant splash in the form of signing All-Star shortstop Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million deal, their pitching rotation remains a concerning area. Jordan Hicks struggled in his transition to a starting role and was eventually shifted back to the bullpen. Robbie Ray, coming off a Tommy John surgery, looked shaky upon his return. Meanwhile, young pitchers Kyle Harrison and Hayden Birdsong, both 23 years old, showed promise but are still developing. The Giants’ marquee signing this winter was future Hall-of-Famer Justin Verlander, who is 42 years old and is coming off his worst season in recent memory.
Alcántara’s Potential Impact
While Alcántara’s performance is uncertain after not throwing a competitive pitch since September 2023, he is still only 29 years old and possesses the physical attributes and pitch mix that could sustain him well into his 30s. Adding Alcántara to their rotation would provide a significant boost, pairing him with All-Star Logan Webb to form a formidable duo. Both pitchers are known for their ability to induce ground balls, which would be particularly effective given the Giants’ elite infield defense. Alcántara’s dominance and endurance, paired with Webb’s consistency, could turn the tide for the Giants, making their rotation one of the most reliable in the National League.
The Marlins’ Perspective
For the Marlins, trading Alcántara, despite his value, could be a prudent move to further bolster their rebuild. Sanders proposes a trade package that includes outfielder Dakota Jordan, starting pitcher Joe Whitman, and infielder Marco Luciano. The standout in this trio is the 23-year-old Luciano, who was once Baseball Prospectus’ eighth-ranked prospect before the 2021 season. However, he has yet to establish himself as a regular in the Giants’ crowded infield. Jordan and Whitman, both ranking comfortably within the Giants’ top ten prospects, also bring significant value. Jordan, a toolsy outfielder selected in the fourth round of the 2024 draft, has the potential to develop into a star, while Whitman, a polished left-hander, has shown promise and could reach his mid-rotation ceiling. This trade would infuse the Marlins with young, high-potential talent, aligning with their long-term strategy of rebuilding through the farm system.
The Giants’ Current Rotation Struggles
The Giants’ need for a reliable starter like Alcántara is underscored by the struggles of their current rotation. Hicks, a former closer, had a rocky transition to the starting role and ultimately returned to the bullpen. Ray, a proven veteran, is still finding his footing after a major surgery, and his inconsistency raises concerns. Harrison and Birdsong, while showing flashes of brilliance, are far from being lockdown starters. Verlander, despite his storied career, is entering his 42nd year and is not the same pitcher he once was. The Giants’ rotation, therefore, remains a work in progress, and acquiring a young, dominant pitcher like Alcántara could provide the stability and leadership they need to compete at a higher level.
The Potential Trade Package
Sanders’ proposed trade package is a balanced and valuable offer for the Marlins. Luciano, despite his stalled development, has the potential to be a star. His defensive skills and power-hitting abilities make him a tantalizing prospect for the Marlins. Jordan, a highly toolsy outfielder, could fill the Marlins’ void in the outfield and add a dynamic bat to their lineup. Whitman, a polished left-hander, brings a reliable arm and the potential to become a solid mid-rotation starter. Each of these prospects adds depth and flexibility to the Marlins’ roster, helping them shape a competitive team in the future. For the Giants, this trade would be a significant investment in their pitching staff, potentially solidifying their position as a top contender in the National League.
