In a bold move to strengthen their pitching rotation for a postseason run, the Cincinnati Reds have acquired Miami Marlins’ ace Sandy Alcántara in a trade that will significantly boost their playoff aspirations. The Reds, who are currently in the hunt for a Wild Card spot, made a splash by landing the 2022 National League Cy Young Award winner to add a true ace to their starting rotation.
Alcántara, who signed a five-year, $56 million deal with the Marlins in 2022, has struggled early in the 2025 season with a 7.27 ERA. However, the Reds are confident that the dominant pitcher who posted a 2.28 ERA in 2022 and completed six games that year will return to form in Cincinnati. His previous success makes him a game-changer, and the Reds are hoping he can lead their rotation in the second half of the season.
The Reds’ rotation, which has been a key strength for them this season, now has a significant upgrade with Alcántara’s arrival. With his history as one of the best pitchers in the league, Alcántara provides the Reds with a legitimate ace who can dominate in crucial games down the stretch and into October.
Alcántara is under contract through 2027, with a club option for 2027, making him a long-term piece for the Reds. His addition signals the team’s commitment to not just compete in 2025 but to build a competitive roster for the coming seasons. The Reds’ pitching staff now looks even more formidable, and the addition of Alcántara gives them a serious shot at making a deep playoff run.
