The San Diego Padres have reportedly been exploring trade options for their ace, Dylan Cease, during the offseason. Cease, who is in the final year of his contract, presents a dilemma for the Padres, as the team may not have the financial flexibility to offer him a new long-term deal. While San Diego is under no immediate pressure to part ways with their star pitcher, moving him before the trade deadline could be a strategic decision, especially if they receive an offer that includes a substantial package of talented prospects. Given Cease’s value as a frontline starter, any potential deal would require a significant return.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer recently identified the New York Mets, Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, and Chicago Cubs as the most logical landing spots for Cease if the Padres choose to move him. Rymer highlighted Cease’s impressive track record, pointing out that since 2021, the right-hander has maintained a 3.52 ERA over 716 innings while leading the league with 891 strikeouts. Cease’s ability to generate swings and misses, combined with his durability, makes him one of the most attractive trade targets for contending teams. Additionally, Rymer suggested that Cease might not have even reached his full potential yet. Last season, he threw a career-high number of innings, and his pitching arsenal was rated among the best in the National League. If the Padres officially make him available, acquiring Cease would likely require multiple young, controllable players in return.
Each of the four teams linked to Cease has a strong case for pursuing him. The Baltimore Orioles, for instance, are in a similar position to last year when they acquired Corbin Burnes. The team boasts an explosive offense but lacks a true No. 1 starter to anchor the rotation. Adding Cease would address that need, but the Orioles could face difficulties in re-signing him beyond 2025, just as they did with Burnes. However, given Baltimore’s abundance of young talent, they have the necessary trade assets to entice the Padres into a deal.
Meanwhile, both the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs have made aggressive moves this offseason, bolstering their rosters with key acquisitions. While neither team is in desperate need of starting pitching, adding a proven ace like Cease would undoubtedly strengthen their rotations. The Mets, under the direction of new president of baseball operations David Stearns, have been looking to accelerate their rebuild, and acquiring a frontline starter could further solidify their status as postseason contenders. The Cubs, on the other hand, have built a roster capable of competing in the National League Central and could see Cease as the missing piece to push them over the top. Additionally, both the Mets and Cubs play in large markets with deep financial resources, making it more feasible for them to sign Cease to a long-term extension after the season.
For the Atlanta Braves, the need for pitching is even more pressing. With Max Fried and Charlie Morton both departing, Atlanta is facing a significant lack of depth in their starting rotation. The Braves have been one of the most consistent contenders in recent years and are focused on making another push for a World Series title. Trading for Cease would not only help stabilize their rotation but also provide them with a proven postseason-caliber arm. While parting with top prospects may not be ideal, it could be a necessary sacrifice in order to maintain their championship aspirations.
Ultimately, the Padres hold a valuable trade chip in Cease, and their decision on whether to move him will depend on their long-term outlook. If they believe they can compete for a playoff spot this season, they may opt to hold onto him until the trade deadline. However, if they prioritize future assets over a short-term playoff push, a trade could be on the horizon. Regardless of what happens, any team looking to acquire Cease will need to put together a substantial offer, as the Padres are unlikely to part with him without securing a major haul in return.
Mets, Braves Among 4 Rumored Suitors In $108 Million Dylan Cease Sweepstakes
