The Boston Red Sox could soon face tough choices regarding their outfield depth. With top prospect Roman Anthony nearing a major league debut and center fielder Ceddanne Rafaela delivering stellar defense but struggling offensively — currently batting just .220 with an OPS+ of 60 — roster decisions may be looming. While Wilyer Abreu and Jarren Duran appear untouchable in trade talks for now, Rafaela could become the most likely trade candidate if Boston seeks upgrades elsewhere.
On Monday, Newsweek’s Zach Pressnell suggested three trade scenarios that could boost Boston’s chances of winning the AL East in 2025. One proposal featured the Red Sox acquiring Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcántara in exchange for Rafaela and three of Boston’s top 30 prospects — Franklin Arias, David Sandlin, and Mikey Romero. Alcántara, the 2022 National League Cy Young winner, would be a huge addition to the Sox rotation.
“If the Red Sox are serious about contending, landing Sandy Alcántara is the move to make,” Pressnell wrote. “Among all the arms potentially on the market, Alcántara stands above the rest — and he’s under control for several more seasons.”
Pairing Alcántara with rising ace Garrett Crochet would instantly give Boston one of the most formidable starting tandems in the league. Though Alcántara missed the 2024 campaign after undergoing Tommy John surgery, he was dominant in 2022, boasting a 2.28 ERA and an 8.0 WAR across 32 starts. With the Marlins expected to be out of playoff contention by the trade deadline, the team could capitalize on Alcántara’s high trade value despite his contract running through 2027.
A deal of this magnitude could push Boston toward AL supremacy — and potentially keep Alcántara away from rivals like the Yankees, who may also pursue the 29-year-old right-hander.
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