After keeping aces Sandy Alcantara & Edward Cabrera at the deadline, the Marlins face the Yankees on Aug 1. Can their pitching shut down New York's bats?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The trade deadline has come and gone, and the biggest news for the Miami Marlins isn't who they acquired, but who they kept. In a powerful statement of intent, the front office held firm, retaining aces Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera despite a flurry of interest from contenders. With the roster's direction now set, the team immediately faces a daunting test as the New York Yankees arrive at loanDepot park tonight.
The Marlins are on the periphery of the NL wild-card race, seven games back, with their strong rotation still intact.
The biggest question of the week has been answered: Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera are still Miami Marlins. Despite fielding serious offers from the Red Sox, Cubs, Astros, and even tonight's opponent, the Yankees, management made the bold choice to keep their top-tier rotation leaders. This decision signals a belief that the core of this team can still make a run, while also protecting long-term assets. Cabrera, in particular, remains under team control through 2028, making him a foundational piece for years to come. By refusing to trade their stars, the Marlins have chosen to build around their strengths rather than tear down for parts.
While the Marlins held onto their biggest names, they weren't entirely quiet. Outfielder Jesús Sánchez was dealt to the Houston Astros in a move that clearly telegraphs the organization's new focus: speed and athletic upside. In return, Miami received right-handed pitcher Ryan Gusto and two intriguing prospects, Chase Jaworsky and Esmil Valencia. Gusto brings a high strikeout rate (9.10 K/9) and will likely provide depth from Triple-A Jacksonville. The real prize might be the prospects. Jaworsky, now ranked No. 15 in the Marlins' system, has 24 steals in High-A, while 19-year-old Valencia has already swiped an incredible 50 bags in Low-A. The message is clear: the Marlins are getting faster.
With the deadline drama in the rearview mirror, the focus shifts to the field. The Marlins (50-55), looking to snap a two-game skid, host the New York Yankees (57-49) tonight. Miami will send righty Janson Junk (5-2, 3.28 ERA) to the mound in a tough matchup against Yankees ace Carlos Rodón (11-7, 3.19 ERA). Junk has been a pleasant surprise this season, showcasing excellent control with only 5 walks in over 60 innings. The offense will need to find a spark, likely leaning on Kyle Stowers, who has been a bright spot with 23 homers and a .298 average. This game is a litmus test for a team that just declared its intention to compete.
The front office has placed its bet. By keeping their aces and retooling the farm system with speed, they've charted a course for the final two months of the season. Now, the pressure shifts to the clubhouse. Sitting nine games back in the division and seven from a wild-card spot, every game matters. Starting tonight against the Yankees, we'll see if this post-deadline Marlins squad has what it takes to turn that bet into a winning hand. The path is difficult, but for the first time in a while, it's also clear.
