Scott Harris, Tigers might have to consider blockbuster trade for long-rumored candidate

Justin Verlander landing on the IL may have been an early reminder for the Detroit Tigers that they still may be in search of rotation help at the MLB trade deadline later this season. To be fair, teams never turn down more starting pitching, but if anything, perhaps Scott Harris is reminded that Verlander can't be counted on to be available when the Tigers will need him most.

If the Tigers are looking for starting pitching help and someone who could slot near the top of a rotation, Sandy Alcantara may be catching the attention of the front office. Outside of Tarik Skubal, Alcantara has arguably been the starting pitcher most rumored to be on the move over the past year.

What threw a wrench in Alcantara's trade rumors in 2025 was the fact that it was his first season back from Tommy John surgery. The Marlins were selling him as the version of the pitcher who won the National League Cy Young Award in 2022, but his numbers made him one of the worst starting pitchers in baseball last year.

The Marlins weren't going to sell low on Alcantara and opted to trade starting pitcher Edward Cabrera and Ryan Weathers during the offseason. Fast forward to the start of the 2026 season, and Alcantara appears to be back.

Sandy Alcantara's early success should have the Detroit Tigers circling his name

Alcantara has tossed 16 shutout innings to open the season, including a complete game against the Chicago White Sox last week. Sure, it's the White Sox, but his efforts took less than 100 pitches. He's striking out over 21% of the hitters he's faced this season, and if the Marlins fall out of contention by July, he could certainly be the top name available.

Clearly, Tigers fans would be drooling over the idea of a postseason rotation included Alcantara, Tarik Skubal, and Framber Valdez. That alone is a reason for Harris and Co. to be interested in Alcantara if he hits the open market.

The interest should also be in what could be after the 2026 season. Alcantara has a $21 million club option for the 2027 season, and could be how Harris addresses the reality that is facing the Tigers' pitching staff. Skubal, Casey Mize, and Jack Flaherty are all free agents this winter. Having Alcantara in the fold would certainly ensure the Tigers' rotation still has a base left after this season.