What happened: The Miami Marlins exercised their 2027 club option on Sandy Alcantara. The decision secures the veteran right-hander at the top of the rotation for the upcoming season.

Why it matters: The move solidifies Miami's pitching foundation after external clubs spent the summer evaluating whether the front office would finalize a trade decision. Alcantara, who established himself as the franchise's all-time strikeout leader in June, remains under club control.

What to watch: Miami turns toward winter roster construction with its ace locked in, positioning Alcantara for another Opening Day start.