A hot streak could lead the Miami Marlins to change course ahead of MLB's trade deadline.
The Marlins are 52-42 following three-game sweeps over the Athletics and Seattle Mariners. Having won 16 of their last 20 games, they possess a wild-card spot with the chance to make the playoffs for the third time since their 2003 World Series triumph.
That success could take a prominent pitcher off the trade market. Per The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, the Marlins plan to keep Sandy Alcantara and "strategically" buy.
Alcantara has rebounded from a rough 2025 to post a 4.00 ERA in 19 starts. While he hasn't rediscovered his 2022 Cy Young Award form, the 30-year-old has reestablished himself as one of baseball's premier workhorses by pitching an NL-leading 123 2/3 innings.
Speculation about the Marlins trading Alcantara has spread ever since he returned from Tommy John surgery, which cost him the entire 2024 campaign. Miami should feel less urgency to shop the right-hander this summer since he has a $21 million club option for 2027.
That contract could also help Miami fetch a considerable haul for a two-time All-Star with a 3.69 career ERA. Yet the Marlins are playing so well that the unlikely contenders may instead seek upgrades before the deadline. Rosenthal identified a third baseman, back-end starting pitcher and high-leverage reliever as their biggest needs.
Alcantara can extend Miami's winning streak when taking the mound against the Cleveland Guardians on Friday night.