Marlins Spring Training: Key Takeaways
JUPITER, FL-Sunday afternoon saw Sandy Alcantara and the Miami Marlins take the field at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium for their 2026 debut. In a marathon of a game, the Nationals outslugged the Marlins, winning 16-8 in what promises to be one of the longest and most action-packed games of their spring training.
Alcantara's Sweeper in Focus
Sandy Alcantara, who dominated the Grapefruit League last year without allowing an earned run in five starts, faced a bumpier road this time. In his single inning against Washington, he threw 28 pitches, giving up three runs on two hits, including a home run, while walking one and striking out one.
Alcantara described his start as "frustrating," especially as he worked to incorporate a new pitch, the sweeper. This pitch was a focal point of his offseason, but it backfired when Brady House launched one for a three-run homer.
"It was a two-strike count and I was trying to throw my best sweeper ever," Alcantara explained. "Just left it in the middle and when you miss, you pay."
While he's been honing the sweeper in bullpen sessions, game conditions present a different challenge. Alcantara admits he’s still gaining confidence in the pitch.
"I think it's about consistency. I have to keep improving, throwing a couple more bullpens, but everything will be good."
New Faces Making Waves
In the bottom of the ninth, Brendan Jones (Yankees) hit the Marlins' first home run of the spring, followed by prospect Ethan O'Donnell (Reds) who belted a grand slam.
Marlins manager Clayton McCullough highlighted the value of spring training for new and upcoming players. "There are so many players in our camp that have come through the system or that we've acquired recently.
It's great to give them an opportunity to run and play. We’re counting on many of them to help us in Miami soon."
Deyvison De Los Santos: A New Approach
The standout Marlin with a multi-hit performance was Deyvison De Los Santos, Fish On First's No. 28 prospect. He notched two singles, one of which drove in Liam Hicks.
After a challenging season in Triple-A, De Los Santos spent the offseason in the Dominican Winter League, posting impressive numbers. More importantly, he focused on his mental game.
“I’d say what I need to improve is my mindset and my maturity," De Los Santos said. "I focused on that, I matured, and that’s what I’m applying here.”
Manager McCullough praised De Los Santos' dedication, noting his early starts at the Jupiter Academy and his work ethic. "It's like seeing a different Deyvison," he remarked.
Quick Hits
- Sandy Alcantara is slated for one more spring start before joining the Dominican Republic for the World Baseball Classic.
- Free agent signings Chris Paddack and John King are expected to make their spring debuts this week.
- Janson Junk, recovering from a Grade 1 right ankle sprain, is anticipated to work off a mound soon.
- Marlins pitchers have not been given permission to challenge pitches, a task reserved for the catcher, as McCullough shared on MLB Network Radio.
What's Next?
Stay tuned as the Marlins continue to fine-tune their roster and strategies in preparation for the upcoming season.