The Next Sandy? Vallente Bellozo is Emerging as One of the Marlins' Most Intriguing Arms

In an era dominated by triple-digit heaters and wipeout sliders, Vallente Bellozo is doing things a little differently—and it’s working.

The 25-year-old Marlins right-hander isn’t lighting up radar guns or going viral on Pitching Ninja. Instead, he’s quietly becoming one of Miami’s most dependable and versatile arms in 2025, drawing early comparisons to none other than Sandy Alcantara—not necessarily in style, but in value.

Bellozo’s rise has been one of quiet consistency. Through his first 7 appearances (five starts, two long relief outings), he’s posted a 2.89 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, and an opponents’ batting average of just .223. He’s averaging just 90.9 mph on his fastball, but he’s locating it with pinpoint precision and pairing it with a sharp cutter, fading changeup, and an advanced feel for sequencing.

It’s that command and calm demeanor that have drawn comparisons to Alcantara—not to mention his ability to shoulder multiple roles within a pitching staff. Much like Sandy did early in his career, Bellozo has seamlessly bounced between the rotation and the bullpen, giving the Marlins quality innings no matter the context.

A Different Path, But a Similar Destination

Bellozo, signed out of Mexico in 2018, wasn’t a top-30 organizational prospect entering this year. But the numbers demanded attention. In 2025, he logged a 1.40 ERA with 19 strikeouts and just 7 walks across just five Triple-A starts, showcasing elite command and a maturity from the time he spent in the big leagues during the 2024 season.

Now, he’s proving that the success wasn’t a fluke. Bellozo isn’t afraid to pitch to contact—he’s keeping his walk rate down and consistently inducing weak contact. His pitch tempo and confidence on the mound have helped him thrive, even when facing lineups stacked with power threats like the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres.

The Marlins have leaned on him during a stretch of rotation injuries and bullpen instability. Whether eating up four innings after a short start or giving six strong as a spot starter, Bellozo has stepped up every time.

Bellozo Could be a Building Block For the Future

It’s still early, but if Bellozo continues this trajectory, the Marlins may have uncovered a long-term piece. He’s not the flamethrower scouts drool over—but he’s the type of pitcher managers trust.

With Sandy Alcantara still trying to find his identity after Tommy John surgery, Miami has needed a stabilizing force in its pitching staff. In an unexpected but welcoming twist, Vallente Bellozo has answered that call.

And just like Alcantara did years ago, he’s doing it his way—quietly, efficiently, and with a competitive fire that’s hard to ignore.