After putting together an impressive 89-73 record during the 2025 season and making the playoffs for the first time since 2021, the Boston Red Sox entered this campaign with high expectations. They are once again looking to be one of the top teams in the American League, but, unfortunately for them, they have been off to a rough start to the 2026 season.
The Red Sox are currently fourth in the American League East with a 7-11 record. They have also been trending in the wrong direction as of late, as they just lost two of their last three games against the Minnesota Twins. With this, there is no question that frustration is building in Boston early on this campaign.
However, hope should certainly not be lost yet for the Red Sox. They only trail the first-place Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East by four games, so they certainly have time to improve and climb the standings. However, if the Red Sox want to get better, they should be looking to add to their roster as soon as possible.
One of the Red Sox’s biggest needs early on this season is another star pitcher in their starting rotation. Because of this, they are now being linked to one of baseball’s most notable trade candidates during the early stages of the season.
Boston Red Sox Named Potential Landing Spot for Marlins Star Pitcher Sandy Alcantara
In a recent article for Sports Illustrated, Patrick McAvoy looked at some of the top MLB trade candidates at this point of the season. Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara made the cut, and it is not surprising when noting that he has been in the rumor mill for multiple years now.
McAvoy also named a handful of potential trade destinations for Alcantara, and listed the Boston Red Sox among the clubs.
“Sandy Alcantara is back to ace form. He has a 2.67 ERA in four starts so far this season. If the Marlins are open to dealing him, they are going to get a haul. Potential Landing Spots: Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays,” McAvoy wrote.
When looking at the Red Sox’s current roster, it is clear that they could use a star pitcher like Alcantara in their rotation. He would provide their pitching staff with a massive boost, as he is one of baseball’s best pitchers when he is playing at his highest level. His 2022 Cy Young Award undoubtedly proves this.
Ultimately, with the Red Sox struggling out of the gate and needing another impactful pitcher, it would make a lot of sense for them to try to swing a deal for Alcantara. He could provide the Red Sox with a big enough boost to get them back on track.
The Red Sox Are Due for a Big Move
Whether it is Alcantara or another star, it is clear that the Red Sox are due for a big move. Their start to the season has been incredibly concerning, and they have multiple areas on their roster that they should be looking to improve.
It will be interesting to see what the Red Sox end up doing, but they are going to eventually need to improve their roster if they hope to get back into the playoffs this year.
Boston Red Sox Linked to Potential Trade for Cy Young Winner