Marlins Christmas 2019: Three presents under Miami’s tree

Sandy Alcantara Becomes a Cy Young Candidate

Sandy Alcantara took a major step forward last season, especially the second half of 2019 after he was named to the All-Star team. The Marlins want to see more of the post-All-Star Alcantara, not the one who struggled with consistency and did not challenge hitters as Mattingly asserted many times last year.

Even with a 6-14 record, the Marlins ace showed he could handle the National League’s best hitters and do it impressively, throwing two complete games last season that was some of the best innings the Marlins have had since Jose Fernandez was on the mound.

Alcantara should be the No. 1 starter this year and take another step forward in becoming a top-tier pitcher. He could have electric stuff with a fastball that reaches the high-90s. I think he has the ability to become the Marlins version on Pedro Martinez.

The one thing Alcantara lacked last season was run support. Should the Marlins find a way to give him runs to back up his performances, 2020 could be a year to remember for the youngster and this pitching staff.