Evaluating how Marlins did in Ozuna trade

Three years after moving All-Star outfielder Marcell Ozuna to the Cardinals, the Marlins are liking their return in what was at the time a criticized deal.

In December 2017, Miami acquired right-handers Sandy Alcantara and Zac Gallen, plus left-hander Daniel Castano and outfielder Magneuris Sierra for Ozuna, who is now with the Braves….

The headliner of the Ozuna trade obviously is Alcantara, an All-Star last year and Miami’s Opening Day starter this year.

Alcantara is on the injured list, but in the opener, he was magnificent in a win at the Phillies, giving up one earned run with seven strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings.

The Marlins have repeatedly said they feel Alcantara’s pure stuff is on par with the best pitchers in the National League. It’s a matter of consistency. The 24-year-old is showing that he can be a legitimate front-of-the-rotation starter.