Yankees trade target risks disappointing New York in key pitching role

The Yankees have been a popular team in pitching trade rumors all season.

That's what happens with injuries to Gerrit Cole, Luis Gil and more. The starting rotation in New York could certainly use reinforcements.

That's why Sandy Alcantara, the former Cy Young winner for the Marlins, has been such a popular idea for fans in the Bronx.

There's just one problem, though. Alcantara is struggling.

An MLB.com article recently called Alcantara one of the biggest disappointments of the season so far.

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It might not be totally shocking, given Alcantara missed the 2024 season after Tommy John surgery. But he's been bad.

In six starts, Alcantara has an 8.31 ERA.

Potentially most concerning is his control, with 17 walks in 26.0 innings.

Maybe struggles will lower his price in a trade, but the longer Alcantara struggles, the riskier he becomes for a team like the Yankees or Cubs to acquire.

There's always a chance he doesn't quite have it anymore after his serious injury.

Maybe he'll turn the corner, but this isn't an encouraging start for anyone who was thinking about making a big offer for the Miami ace.

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