Astros Linked to Trade for Marlins' Cy Young Righty Amid Rotation Woes

Houston could use a boost to their starting rotation after early struggles.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:19pm

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The Houston Astros have been linked to a potential trade for Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young award winner, as they look to shore up their starting rotation amid early-season struggles. Alcantara, who has a career 3.63 ERA, would provide a major boost to the Astros if acquired.

Why it matters

The Astros' starting rotation has been a concern for the last couple of seasons, with injuries and inconsistent performances from several starters. Adding an ace like Alcantara could solidify their rotation and give them a better chance to contend for another World Series title.

The details

The Astros have been linked to Alcantara, along with the San Diego Padres and New York Yankees, as potential trade destinations. Alcantara won the 2022 Cy Young award with a 2.28 ERA, but struggled in 2023 with a 4.14 ERA before missing all of 2024 due to injury. The Astros' own starters have had shaky starts to the 2026 season, with Tatsuya Imai, Cristian Javier, and Mike Burrows all allowing multiple runs in their first outings.

  • Alcantara won the 2022 NL Cy Young award.
  • Alcantara had a 4.14 ERA in 2023 and missed all of 2024 due to injury.
  • The Astros have been linked to Alcantara in trade rumors ahead of the 2026 season.

The players

Sandy Alcantara

A right-handed starting pitcher for the Miami Marlins who won the 2022 NL Cy Young award with a 2.28 ERA.

Tatsuya Imai

A starting pitcher for the Houston Astros who allowed 4 runs in 2.2 innings in his 2026 debut.

Cristian Javier

A starting pitcher for the Houston Astros who allowed 6 runs in 4.2 innings in his 2026 debut.

Mike Burrows

A starting pitcher for the Houston Astros who allowed 5 runs in 5.2 innings in his 2026 debut.

Lance McCullers Jr.

A starting pitcher for the Houston Astros who had a strong 7-inning, 1-run outing against the Boston Red Sox.

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What’s next

The Astros will likely continue to monitor Alcantara's situation with the Marlins and evaluate whether they have the necessary trade pieces to acquire the ace right-hander.

The takeaway

The Astros' starting rotation has been a concern for the past couple of seasons, and adding an elite pitcher like Sandy Alcantara could be a game-changer for their chances of contending for another World Series title. However, it will likely come at a steep cost in terms of prospects or young talent.