Sandy Alcantara has already proven to be a throwback to yesteryear. The Miami Marlins ace led the majors with six complete games last season, beating every other major league team in that category by himself. It has not taken him long to pick up where he left off.
At a time when pitchers are still building beyond the 75 to 80 pitch count, Alcantara is not facing any such restrictions. Instead, he fired a complete game shutout on Tuesday, throwing 100 pitches in the outing.
Sandy Alcantara a difference maker for Miami Marlins
The Marlins needed that performance in order to earn the victory on Tuesday. They managed just one run against the previously undefeated Twins, putting an extra onus on Alcantara. He was more than up to the task, allowing just three hits and a walk while striking out five batters.
This is also the type of performance that the Marlins need if they are going to contend this year. They are looking to contend once more, with the acquisitions of Luis Arraez, Avisail Garcia, Jorge Soler, A.J. Puk, and Johnny Cueto all designed to win now. The lineup has held the Marlins back over the past few years, even after those offseason splurges in 2021-22.
But it all comes back to their pitching staff. The Marlins are still going to go as far as their arms are going to take them, with Alcantara in the center of their hopes. Getting another Cy Young caliber season from Alcantara will go a long way to making that happen. Thus far, he is showing that he can be that pitcher for the Marlins once again.
Almost every pitcher is still building their pitch count for the 2023 season. Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara is in midseason form already based on his outing Tuesday.
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