Breaking News: Yankees Shift Tide in AL With Blockbuster Trade For $56 Million Ace

The New York Yankees lost Gerrit Cole for the season after he underwent Tommy John surgery during spring training. Luis Gil has suffered a setback in his recovery as well. The Yankees could be on the hunt for starting pitchers near the trade deadline.

Sandy Alcántara of the Miami Marlins could be a hot name on the trade block this summer. The Marlins traded two of their best players, Luis Arráez and Tanner Scott, last season and Alcántara could be next. ESPN’s David Schoenfield tabbed the Yankees as a suitor of Alcántara.

“The Yankees did just get Clarke Schmidt back, but they could certainly use a rotation upgrade,” wrote Schoenfield. “It’s hard to envision them trading top prospect George Lombard Jr., plus Spencer Jones’ stock has fallen, so let’s list a couple of pitchers here. Warren has had some big league time and would give the Marlins an MLB-ready starter. Hess was the Yankees’ first-round pick last year and perhaps has more upside but is further away from the majors.”

Alcántara has a 7.27 ERA in four starts this year. He missed all of last season and seems to still be trying to find his stride. He won the National League Cy Young Award in 2022.

That season he had a 2.28 ERA, six complete games, 228 2/3 innings pitched and 207 strikeouts. Once he finds his rhythm, he is one of the best pitchers in the league.

He could lead the Yankees through October and give them a legitimate ace alongside Max Fried. Additionally, he would be more than just a rental. He signed a five-year, $56 million deal in 2022 and is under club control through 2027. He has a $21 million club option for 2027.