Mets’ Hopes for Dylan Cease Trade Grow as Padres Sign Nick Pivetta
The San Diego Padres made a notable move on Wednesday by signing Nick Pivetta, a decision that could significantly impact the future of Dylan Cease. With Pivetta now in their rotation, speculation is mounting that San Diego may be more inclined to trade Cease, a development that could be particularly intriguing for the New York Mets.
Why the Mets Are Watching Closely
Since taking over as the Mets’ president of baseball operations, David Stearns has aggressively reshaped the roster, investing heavily in key acquisitions. However, the Mets still lack the starting pitching depth necessary to truly compete. Given their ambitions, they have been linked to several high-profile pitchers in both free agency and the trade market—including Cease.
Cease, a dominant right-hander, remains a highly sought-after name, but his impending free agency complicates matters. The Padres would ideally retain him to bolster their own playoff hopes, but his eventual massive contract demands could make that difficult. San Diego’s financial constraints might push them toward securing a return for him now rather than risking losing him for nothing.
How Pivetta’s Arrival Changes the Landscape
By adding Pivetta to their roster, the Padres have given themselves a layer of flexibility. While losing Cease would still be a blow, the presence of Pivetta makes the potential departure slightly less damaging. Before this move, trading Cease might have left a gaping hole in their rotation—now, San Diego has more wiggle room.
That doesn’t necessarily mean the Padres are actively shopping Cease, but it does open the door for discussions. With multiple teams expected to inquire about his availability and price, the Mets will likely be among the most aggressive suitors.
Why the Mets Make Sense as a Trade Partner
For many teams, acquiring Cease on a rental deal would be a significant risk—giving up top prospects for a player who could walk in free agency is a tough pill to swallow. However, the Mets are one of the few teams that can afford to sign Cease to a long-term extension. With Steve Cohen’s deep pockets, New York has the financial muscle to not only acquire Cease but also keep him beyond 2025.
Additionally, from a narrative perspective, a potential trade would have an amusing twist. Pivetta started his career with the Philadelphia Phillies, the Mets’ division rival, so if his signing indirectly leads to Cease landing in Queens, it would be an ironic full-circle moment.
The Biggest Roadblock: San Diego’s Intentions
Despite all the speculation, the key to any Cease trade lies in the Padres’ true intentions. Signing Pivetta could indicate that San Diego is committed to contending in 2025 rather than selling off assets. If that’s the case, they may be unwilling to part with Cease unless they receive a massive haul in return.
Reports suggest that the Padres’ asking price for Cease is sky-high, with rumors indicating they would want New York’s top three prospects in a trade package. That’s a price the Mets are unlikely to pay, even with their aggressive approach to roster building.
Negotiation Will Be Key
If the Mets are serious about landing Cease, they’ll need to work to drive the price down. San Diego has leverage for now, but if they truly don’t intend to offer Cease a long-term deal, their position could weaken as the trade deadline approaches. Other teams could enter the mix, but few have the financial resources and competitive drive of the Mets.
For now, everything hinges on the Padres’ willingness to engage in talks. If they soften their stance on the asking price, the Mets could be in prime position to land a top-tier starter who could significantly bolster their rotation for both the 2025 season and beyond.
BREAKING: Dylan Cease to Mets trade is likely than ever before thanks to former rival’s surprise decision
