What a Red Sox trade for Sandy Alcantara might actually look like

A Boston Red Sox trade for Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara has been floated before, but with the rotation struggling as much as it has, save for Garrett Crochet, the need to add starting pitching has never been greater.

The Red Sox don't have a clear No. 2 starter behind Crochet, and adding such a pitcher should be a priority if this team intends to be buyers at the deadline. Alcantara may be one of the only quality arms available at the deadline this year.

Many teams that figured to be sellers early in the year have since turned it around. There was speculation that the Twins would sell after an awful start and ongoing ownership uncertainty, but they ripped off a 13-game win streak and are now firmly in the playoff conversation. The Cardinals looked to have several available arms, but they have also ridden a hot streak into playoff contention. There are very few teams that are truly out of contention already, meaning the list of available trade candidates is small.

Red Sox could make deal for Marlins' Sandy Alcantara before trade deadline

If the Red Sox are seriously considering trading for Alcantara, what would they have to give up in return? The price will most certainly be steep given his contract situation and his pedigree. The 2022 National League Cy Young winner still has two years of club control left after this season at a reasonable price. His value has likely dropped since the start of the season due to his poor performance, but clubs will almost certainly be willing to take a risk on a guy with his talent.

The Red Sox will almost certainly be unwilling to part with any of their big three prospects — Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell or Marcelo Mayer — in exchange for Alcantara. That being said, the Marlins will be looking for prospects, as they picked up three from the Padres when they traded Luis Arraez last year. Acquiring Alcantara might require the Red Sox to give up their No. 3 prospect, Franklin Arias, and their No. 4 prospect, Luis Perales. Those guys are both a couple yof ears away from the big leagues, but they certainly have potential.

In addition, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Triston Casas dealt. He's been the subject of near-constant trade rumors due to the logjam in the Red Sox infield. Obviously, he won't be back from injury until next year, but he could be an attractive trade piece nonetheless.

Alcantara isn't the most intriguing trade candidate with his 7.14 ERA wth 50 strikeouts and 31 walks over 63 innings this year, but with only a few clear sellers in the market, he may be one of the only choices. If the Red Sox can help him find the strike zone, he could eat some innings for the rotation.