Dylan Cease Trade Rumors: Orioles, Cubs, and Mets Lead the Chase

Dylan Cease: The Key to Contending in 2025?

Dylan Cease is one of MLB’s premier pitchers, and his availability on the trade market has sparked widespread interest. With his mix of high strikeout rates, postseason experience, and manageable salary, Cease is the type of player who can change a team’s fortunes.

The Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets stand out as top suitors, each offering unique reasons for pursuing Cease. Baltimore needs an ace to replace Corbin Burnes, Chicago seeks to solidify its rotation for a playoff push, and New York wants to add another star to its roster.

From the Padres’ perspective, trading Cease could replenish their farm system and create financial flexibility. While losing an ace is never easy, San Diego’s payroll constraints make this a logical move.

As trade rumors swirl, Cease’s next destination remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: wherever he lands, he’ll bring immediate impact and elevate his new team’s chances of competing in 2025. For now, Orioles, Cubs, and Mets fans will watch closely, hoping their team secures one of baseball’s brightest stars.

Thanks to Just Baseball for the stats, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.

A Match in Baltimore: Orioles Eye Dylan Cease

The Baltimore Orioles are a natural fit for Dylan Cease, especially after losing ace Corbin Burnes in free agency. Burnes, who signed a six-year, $210 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leaves a gaping hole at the top of Baltimore's rotation. Adding Cease would not only fill that void but also solidify the Orioles as a legitimate postseason threat in 2025.

Cease offers elite talent at a bargain price compared to what’s available in free agency. His $13.75 million salary makes him an attractive option for Baltimore, whose budget-conscious approach has yielded success in recent seasons. MLB insiders, including Jon Morosi, have linked Cease to the Orioles since the Winter Meetings, and Baltimore remains a top contender for his services.

The Orioles boast one of MLB’s deepest farm systems, packed with promising hitters. This depth makes them an ideal trade partner for San Diego, whose farm system has been depleted by aggressive win-now moves in recent years. A trade package centered on young, MLB-ready hitters could entice the Padres to part with their ace.

Cease represents a rare opportunity for the Orioles to acquire an elite pitcher without a long-term financial commitment, making him an excellent fit for their roster and ambitions.

Orioles World Series Odds: +1400

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A Reunion in Chicago? Cubs Consider Dylan Cease

The Chicago Cubs are another team with a clear need for Dylan Cease, making a reunion with their former draft pick an intriguing possibility. Cease was originally selected by the Cubs in 2014 but was traded to the White Sox before making his MLB debut. The Cubs could bring him back to lead their rotation and solidify their push for the NL Central crown.

The Cubs have made several pitching additions this offseason, including Colin Rea and Matthew Boyd, but they lack a true ace to anchor their rotation. Adding Cease would give Chicago a dominant starter capable of leading them deep into October. His four consecutive seasons with 200+ strikeouts and proven ability to perform under pressure make him an ideal target for a team looking to compete immediately.

Chicago also has one of MLB's top farm systems, giving them the assets needed to acquire a star like Cease. Their prospect depth and willingness to spend make them a strong trade partner for the Padres. As Cease enters his final year of club control, the Cubs could secure a short-term ace while positioning themselves to extend him long-term.

Cubs World Series Odds: +2800

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Mets Aim Big: Dylan Cease in Their Sights

The New York Mets have never been shy about pursuing star players, and Dylan Cease fits the profile of a player they would target. With owner Steve Cohen’s deep pockets and a relentless drive to build a World Series contender, the Mets could make a strong push to acquire the Padres’ ace.

The Mets’ current rotation includes solid arms like Sean Manaea, Frankie Montas, and Kodai Senga but lacks an established ace. Cease would immediately elevate their pitching staff, giving the Mets a reliable frontline starter to complement their potent offense. His ability to rack up strikeouts and dominate opposing lineups is exactly what the Mets need to compete in the stacked NL East.

The Mets’ interest in Cease isn’t just about 2025. Cohen has a history of locking down stars with massive long-term contracts, and Cease could be the next player to sign a mega-deal with New York. Additionally, the Mets have young talent and financial flexibility to create a competitive trade package for San Diego.

Acquiring Cease would be a statement move for the Mets, signaling their intent to contend immediately and solidifying their rotation for years to come.

Mets World Series Odds: +1000

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Dylan Cease: The Key to Contending in 2025?

Dylan Cease is one of MLB’s premier pitchers, and his availability on the trade market has sparked widespread interest. With his mix of high strikeout rates, postseason experience, and manageable salary, Cease is the type of player who can change a team’s fortunes.

The Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets stand out as top suitors, each offering unique reasons for pursuing Cease. Baltimore needs an ace to replace Corbin Burnes, Chicago seeks to solidify its rotation for a playoff push, and New York wants to add another star to its roster.

From the Padres’ perspective, trading Cease could replenish their farm system and create financial flexibility. While losing an ace is never easy, San Diego’s payroll constraints make this a logical move.

As trade rumors swirl, Cease’s next destination remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: wherever he lands, he’ll bring immediate impact and elevate his new team’s chances of competing in 2025. For now, Orioles, Cubs, and Mets fans will watch closely, hoping their team secures one of baseball’s brightest stars.

Thanks to Just Baseball for the stats, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.