When you see Sandy Alcantara at loanDepot Park, there's no doubt who el capitan is in the Miami Marlins' rotation; the former Cy Young Award winner has become an instant icon.

Alacantara, 31, who was named the National League's best pitcher in 2022, has evolved into one of the best hurlers in the history of the franchise, and is currently third in all-time victories for the club. If he signs on with the team for 3-4 years, he will likely own nearly every starting pitching statistical  category in the books. That appears to be what the team wants as well - to see the venerable righthander have a hero's sendoff in a Marlins uniform.

It wasn't always smooth sailing in South Florida, as Alcantara was hit with injuries that temporarily derailed his tenure in Miami. Tommy John Surgery cost him the entire 2024 season, and he followed that with a muddled performance in 2025.

This year, on the brink of an option in the offseason, the veteran starter rounded back into form. He was the Major League Baseball leader in innings pitched, showing that his arm strength and stamina have returned. He also posted a 13-11 record with a 3.87 ERA and 153 strikeouts. He also saved three games and received plenty of love from the fans at season's end.

With only the 2027 option guaranteed, the question is: Will Miami sign their franchise fastballer to a long-term deal? One that will likely make him a Marlin for life? 

It's not lost on the powers that be on just how important the pitcher is to the franchise. President of baseball operations Peter Bendix knows he needs to hold on to his golden arm for multiple reasons. Some have to do with the fact that Alcantara is the best they have. The other aspects come down to leadership, legacy, and public relations. It would make no sense if the team made a pedestrian effort to keep him; they must go all out.

"He is so meaningful to this organization, and that's not lost on me," Bendix said about Alcantara. "Another incredible season. Really fun to watch him pitch, his leadership in the clubhouse, the way he handles himself, and the way he sets an example for the rest of the team."

Perhaps a 4-5 year deal with some incentives could get a deal done that's satisfactory to both sides.  The Marlins have expressed their interest in keeping him, and Alcantara himself has essentially stated that while he always has to keep his options open, he's truly like to remain a part of a developing, young team. 

"We will be here if that is what God wants," Alcantara after closing out a win in the season finale against the Atlanta Braves. "That is also if the organization gives me an opportunity to continue playing here not just for the 2027 season, but for the remainder of the my career. I am always going to be grateful for this organization and I hope that in 2027 it will be a very different year for everyone in here and the organization."