Marlins call in ace Sandy Alcantara for his first career save, 2 days after a 101-pitch start
MLB's leader in starts, innings and pitches decided to give relief work a try on Wednesday.
Sandy Alcantara, the Miami Marlins ace, made his MLB debut as a reliever on Wednesday, recording his first career save. The former Cy Young Award winner entered the ninth inning to secure a 4-3 victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Alcantara only threw 13 pitches in his relief appearance, which concluded when pinch runner Jordan Lawlar was thrown out attempting to steal second base.
The decision for Alcantara to make his relief appearance came at his request, as Marlins manager Clayton McCullough informed reporters after the game that the pitcher approached pitching coach Daniel Moskos earlier about pitching in the bullpen if needed. Alcantara, who underwent Tommy John surgery in October 2023, has been one of MLB's top innings eaters since his breakout season in 2019.
With the Marlins currently 7.5 games out of a wild-card spot, Alcantara's performance could significantly impact the team's playoff chances.
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