With the New York Mets’ starting rotation impacted by injuries, MLB analyst Tom Verducci claims Sandy Alcantara is a suitable arm to explore. This was on February 28th on an episode of MLB Network’s Hot Stove, where he discussed how Alcantara has looked sharp so far in spring training. He reached 100 mph in the Marlins’ 7-2 loss to the Braves, displaying his resiliency and strength on the mound. As well as how he has progressed since coming off Tommy John surgery in 2023.
Verducci believes that the 2022 NL Cy Young winner could be a strong candidate for the Mets as the season progresses. The controllable ace was on the trade block this off-season, with teams such as the New York Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles showing interest. The Mets currently have two impactful starters sidelined from their rotation. Front-end starter Sean Manaea is sidelined with an oblique injury, and Frankie Montas has a strained late muscle. Both will miss the start of the season, and Montas is expected to miss ample playing time, while Manaea is anticipated to return sometime in April.
“I know it’s just been one start, but the early returns… this guy is back.”
Tom Verducci dives in on Sandy Alcantara, who gets the ball today for Miami at 1pm ET on MLB Network
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— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) February 28, 2025
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Alcantara Depicted as Strong Trade Candidate for Mets
What Alcantara Could Offer to the Mets Rotation
While Alcantara missed the 2024 season to recover from Tommy John, he is a veteran who would offer a commanding presence on the mound for the Mets. Especially as they are looking to push for the World Series this season. Alcantara has also showcased dedication to the Miami Marlins, as he still traveled with the team in 2024 despite being sidelined. Alcantara has also played for the St. Louis Cardinals, where he started his MLB career in 2017. From 2020 to 2023, he made four consecutive Opening Day starts for the Marlins, showcasing his reliability and consistency.
A Durable Workhorse, of Course!
Since 2019, he has led all qualified pitchers with 858 1/3 innings pitched, demonstrating his durability. His durability was also represented by recording 200-plus innings in 2021 and 2022. The Dominican right-handed starter also has postseason experience. According to Stat Muse, in his career in the postseason, he has sported an ERA of 4.26 with a 1-1 record and 12 strikeouts. In terms of his pitching prowess, his best pitch is his fastball, which commands a high exit velocity. He also dominates by charging the strike zone with accuracy.
In addition to the depth that Alcantara can provide for the Mets, he performs well in high-leverage circumstances. In those situations, he is precise with his pitch selection to take down opponents. His stability makes him a reliable workhorse who would provide the Mets with quality starts on the mound. Alcantara currently remains under contract with the Marlins. He is coming into the fourth year of his five-year, $56 million contract extension. His contract also comes with a sixth-year club option worth $21 million.
Main Photo Credits: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
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