The San Diego Padres have already made waves this season by landing the game's best closer, Mason Miller, in a blockbuster trade that sent top prospect Leo De Vries and others packing. Now, according to Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller, president of baseball operations A.J. Preller might be ready to strike again at the 2026 trade deadline—this time targeting Miami Marlins ace and former Cy Young winner Sandy Alcántara.

Alcántara, who is under contract through 2027 at a total of $56 million, has looked every bit the dominant force that won him the 2022 NL Cy Young Award. Through his first six starts this season, he's posted a sharp 3.05 ERA, reminding scouts and front offices alike why he's one of the most feared arms in the National League.

"Surely, there will be no shortage of interested parties, but look for San Diego's A.J. Preller to work his deadline magic once again," Miller wrote, setting the stage for what could be another aggressive move from the Padres' front office.

The challenge? San Diego's farm system is widely considered the weakest in baseball after years of trading prospects for established stars. But that hasn't stopped Preller before, and it might not matter here. The Marlins have shown a willingness to deal—most recently shipping out Ryan Weathers and Edward Cabrera in exchange for seven prospects. If Miami is looking to stockpile young talent again, Alcántara is the logical next piece to move.

For Padres fans, this potential move would add a proven, frontline starter to a rotation already boosted by a dominant bullpen. It's the kind of bold, win-now move that has defined Preller's tenure in San Diego—and one that could make the Padres even more dangerous down the stretch.