As the MLB offseason unfolds, many anticipated that the New York Yankees would aggressively target Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara through a trade, given the apparent alignment of needs between the two clubs.
Miami appeared positioned to consider moving Alcantara, especially after his impressive finish to the 2025 season, combined with the organization’s abundance of starting pitching talent. On the other side, New York required additional rotation depth without a massive financial commitment, making the matchup seem logical.
However, recent developments have shifted the focus. According to reporting, the Marlins are entertaining inquiries for a different arm on their staff, while Alcantara remains firmly unavailable.
Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald has indicated that the pitcher drawing interest is Edward Cabrera, with Miami open to discussions but firm on their valuation.
Jackson noted that the Marlins are “listening” on Cabrera, although he noted that they do not want to “sell short” on the right-hander.
Acquiring Cabrera would undoubtedly demand a substantial return package.
At age 27, he remains under club control until 2028 and delivered a strong performance in 2025, posting a 3.53 ERA with 150 strikeouts across 137.2 innings pitched.
Once ranked as a premier prospect, Cabrera debuted in the majors back in 2021 and displayed elite potential in early appearances, though he struggled with reliability until his most recent campaign. Health concerns have been a recurring issue, as the right-hander from the Dominican Republic has avoided major operations but frequently lost significant time, only surpassing 100 innings for the first time in 2025.
Despite these red flags, Cabrera’s upside is undeniable, and Miami’s demands will reflect that, likely requiring top-tier prospects or established talent in exchange. Still, the Yankees would be wise to explore options with the Marlins.
New York faces uncertainty at the front of its rotation heading into 2026, with Gerrit Cole continuing rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery and Carlos Rodón working back from an elbow procedure.
When at full strength, the Yankees possess one of baseball’s elite pitching groups, yet Cole has not completed a full workload since 2023, highlighting the importance of adding reliable innings.
Links to Milwaukee Brewers standout Freddy Peralta have persisted this winter, though his impending free agency after the upcoming season adds a layer of complexity.
In contrast, Cabrera offers cost-effective, long-term control as a young, affordable option, positioning him as perhaps the most appealing trade candidate available to bolster New York’s staff this offseason.
