Yankees are in a strong position to acquire Cy Young winner, former GM says: 'They've had many discussions'

The New York Yankees are actively exploring ways to strengthen their starting rotation this offseason, and former Cy Young recipient Sandy Alcantara has surfaced as a leading trade candidate. According to former general manager Jim Bowden, the Yankees represent a prime destination for the Marlins ace.

I believe Sandy Alcantara of the Marlins has a real chance of being traded to the New York Yankees, Bowden said on SiriusXM. There have been numerous discussions. If the Yankees were willing to part with Spencer Jones, they could potentially sign Kyle Tucker in free agency and then use Jones in a trade for Alcantara. Imagine adding both Kyle Tucker and Sandy Alcantara to a team that won 94 games last season that would significantly alter their lineup.

This season, Alcantara has not reached the heights of his 2022 Cy Young performance. Across 31 starts, he posted an 11-12 record with a 5.36 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, and 142 strikeouts. The 30-year-old missed all of the 2024 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

From a financial standpoint, Alcantara remains a manageable addition, with a salary of $17.6 million in 2026 and a $21 million club option in 2027. Speculation had suggested the Yankees engaged in trade discussions with Miami over Alcantara and right-hander Edward Cabrera during this years trade deadline, but the Marlins retained both pitchers.

Original coverage by NJ.com.

Author: Sophia Brooks