The Boston Red Sox are reportedly in the mix to land pitcher Sandy Alcántara as the MLB trade deadline approaches. While the team’s revamped rotation is much improved compared to last season, there’s still room to upgrade. According to ESPN’s David Schoenfield (subscription required), the Red Sox might need to part with one of these three top prospects to land Alcántara: shortstop Marcelo Mayer (ranked No. 3 in the system), infielder Franklin Arias (No. 4), or infielder Yoeilin Cespedes (No. 7).
Schoenfield points out that Alcántara’s affordable contract and team control through 2027 make him an especially appealing target for Boston, which has been hesitant to spend heavily in recent years. “The Red Sox should have the resources to outbid other teams, particularly since the Marlins are desperate for hitters,” he wrote.
If the Marlins were to acquire Mayer, Schoenfield notes they would likely move Xavier Edwards to second base permanently. However, Arias and Cespedes could play either shortstop or second, offering more flexibility. Given Alcántara’s value and the Marlins’ desire to maximize their return, the price may be steep. While talks might start with just one of Boston’s top infield prospects, there’s a real possibility the Sox could be asked to include two in a deal.
