The Miami Marlins are at a crossroads, and their offseason moves could shape their future for years to come. Boldly stepping into the spotlight, the team faces a delicate balance between immediate improvement and long-term sustainability. Coming off a 79-win season in 2025, the Marlins saw promising performances from young talents like Kyle Stowers and Jakob Marsee, but they’re far from a finished product. The NL East is poised to be a gauntlet next year, with the Mets, Phillies, and Braves all gearing up for a fierce battle. So, what’s Miami’s play?
Here’s where it gets intriguing: despite the pressure to compete, the Marlins seem hesitant to part ways with key assets like right-handers Edward Cabrera and Sandy Alcantara. According to Kevin Barral and Isaac Azout of Fish on First, these pitchers—once considered trade bait—are now more likely to stay put. And this is the part most people miss: Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young winner, had a rough 2025 with a 5.36 ERA, but the Marlins aren’t ready to sell low on a player who’s been a cornerstone of their rotation. Plus, trading him could send the wrong message to the MLBPA, which has already raised eyebrows over the team’s spending habits.
But here’s where it gets controversial: if Alcantara stays, Cabrera becomes the more likely trade chip—though only for an overwhelming return. The 27-year-old had a breakout 2025, posting a 3.53 ERA and striking out 25.8% of batters while averaging 97.0 mph on his fastball. Teams like the Mets and Cubs have already shown interest, but the Marlins are in no rush to deal a rising star with three years of team control. Is this the right move, or are they risking stagnation?
If Miami holds onto both pitchers, they’ll boast a formidable rotation with Alcantara, Cabrera, Eury Perez, Braxton Garrett, and Ryan Weathers, backed by prospects like Max Meyer and Robby Snelling. But here’s the twist: there’s been chatter about adding Michael King, a right-hander with ace potential who’s projected to command a four-year, $80MM deal. Would this be a game-changer, or a risky overinvestment for a team already strong in the rotation?
King, a former Marlins draft pick, is coming off an injury-plagued season but remains a hot commodity. The Cubs and Orioles are already in the mix, and his 2024 performance with the Padres proved he’s worth the hype. Yet, for the Marlins, signing him would be a departure from their recent frugal ways—their biggest free-agent splash since Avisail Garcia’s $53MM deal in 2021.
So, what do you think? Should the Marlins go all-in on King, or focus on internal growth? Is trading Cabrera a mistake, or a necessary move for the right price? Let us know in the comments—this offseason is shaping up to be one for the books!
