Sandy Alcantara hits rough patch, Marlins’ rally falls short

The Marlins dropped to 53-99 on Wednesday afternoon as Sandy Alcantara was hit hard by the Diamondbacks in a 5-4 defeat. This result ensured that Miami will hold a top-five overall selection in the 2020 MLB Draft.

• Sandy Alcantara: 5.2 IP, 7 H, 5 R (4 ER), 2 BB, 3 K, 2 HR (103 pitches)
• Mike Leake: 6.2 IP, 8 H, 3 ER, 0 BB, 4 K, 2 HR (86 pitches)

All four home runs in the contest came against the starters, one apiece by Abraham Almonte, Christian Walker, Starlin Castro and Austin Dean. Castro’s was his 20th of the season, matching the injured Brian Anderson for the team lead in that category. Meanwhile, Dean improved his September slash line to .278/.350/.500 and is strengthening his case to stick on the active roster as we look toward 2020.

Alcantara racked up 11 swinging strikes, which is similar to his usual rate. But the D-backs consistently squared him up whenever they did put balls in play. The rookie right-hander wasn’t helped by an Isan Díaz fielding error, which squandered a potential double play opportunity.

Even in mediocrity, Alcantara was able to reflect on his 2019 achievements. During this start, he set the Marlins rookie record for innings pitched and set new single-season franchise marks for most innings pitched and strikeouts by a Dominican player.

Five Marlins relievers combined for 2 ¹⁄₃ scoreless innings of work. José Ureña finished the game, although it was a non-save situation as Arizona had a 5-4 lead.

Much-needed distractions from the lousy major league product, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reported prior to first pitch that Miguel Rojas has agreed to a two-year, roughly $10 million contract extension. A club option could keep him with the Fish through 2022.

Also, the Marlins announced most of their Minor League award winners. The group is highlighted by Díaz, Sixto Sánchez and Braxton Garrett.

Following Thursday’s off day, the final home series of the 2019 campaign awaits. Aníbal Sánchez and the Washington Nationals come to Miami on Friday night, as Robert Dugger makes the start for the home team (7:10 p.m. first pitch). Arrive early if you’d like to see the Minor League award presentation!

Marlins vs. Diamondbacks box score (Baseball Theater)

Fish Picks answer key

1. Marlins
2. Under
3. Over
4. Yes
5. Diamondbacks