The Miami Marlins are optimistic about their ace pitcher Sandy Alcantara as he gears up for a promising 2026 season. After a tumultuous recovery from Tommy John surgery, fans are hopeful that Alcantara will soon reclaim his dominant form on the mound.
Quick context
Alcantara returned to the Marlins last season after missing the entirety of 2024 due to injury. Although his performance in 2025 fell short of expectations, trends suggest a positive turnaround is on the horizon. After posting a career-high 5.36 ERA, Alcantara seems poised to bounce back in 2026.
Key takeaways
- The Injury Is in the Past: Alcantara’s previous injury struggles are behind him. As he continues to regain his strength and confidence, his past accolades, including leading the National League in several categories and earning a Cy Young Award, serve as reminders of his potential.
- Essentially a Contract Season: With a club option for 2027 valued at $21 million, the upcoming season becomes crucial for Alcantara. Currently set to make $17.3 million this year, he is motivated to prove his worth and secure his future, potentially aiding his performance on the field.
- Second Half Success: Alcantara displayed marked improvement in the second half of the last season. Following the All-Star break, he posted a 3.33 ERA in 13 games, striking out the same number of batters as he did in the less successful first half, while allowing far fewer hits.
What’s next
If Alcantara can carry the momentum from his late-season performance into spring training and the upcoming season, he has the potential to be a significant asset for the Marlins in 2026. His ability to adjust and improve will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike, making him a player to watch as the season progresses.
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