Chicago White Sox Considering Trading Ace Pitcher Dylan Cease
MLB Insider Bob Nightengale Suggests Potential Trade Talks
There is a growing belief that the Chicago White Sox may part ways with their star pitcher, Dylan Cease, in the upcoming season. Despite opting to keep Cease at the trade deadline last year, trade talks have resurfaced during the offseason.
Renowned MLB insider Bob Nightengale, known for his connections to the organization, has consistently mentioned Cease’s name in trade conversations. In his recent USA Today column, Nightengale revealed that the White Sox are open to trading Cease as they aim to lower their payroll and make necessary changes to the team.
Cease’s exceptional performance in the 2021 season solidifies his status as one of the best arms available on the trade market. He set a White Sox franchise record with a remarkable 12.28 strikeouts per 9 innings pitched. In the following season, Cease’s impressive statistics, including a 2.20 ERA, .190 opponent average, .306 opponent slugging percentage, and 11.10 strikeouts per nine innings, ranked him among the top pitchers in the MLB. He also recorded 227 strikeouts, placing him fifth in the league and marking his second consecutive season with over 220 strikeouts.
With Cease set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, the White Sox may consider trading him while he still has two years of control. However, Cease experienced a slight setback in the 2023 season, posting a 7-9 record with a 4.58 ERA in 177 innings pitched. His opponents’ hard-hit percentage increased, and he surrendered more hits and walks compared to previous seasons.
These factors may lower Cease’s trade value, especially considering the abundance of talented starting pitchers in the upcoming free agent class. Many teams seeking pitching reinforcements may prefer signing a free agent starter rather than giving up valuable assets for Cease.
Despite the potential decline in trade value, the White Sox could choose to retain Cease until the trade deadline, allowing him to rebuild his worth. This strategy could increase his trade price, as he would still have another year of control and remain one of the most talented pitchers available.
Trading Cease would make sense for the White Sox, considering their numerous roster gaps that need addressing. Holding onto the 27-year-old pitcher would be wasteful, as it would not contribute to their contention in the upcoming season. By trading Cease, the White Sox could fill some of these gaps and potentially secure promising prospects in return.
Even if the White Sox believe they can retool in time to contend in 2025, keeping Cease would result in losing him for nothing once the season concludes. As a client of renowned agent Scott Boras, Cease is likely to command a significant contract that may exceed the White Sox’s budget.
If the White Sox decide to trade Cease this offseason, several teams could be potential suitors. The Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Cincinnati Reds are among the teams that could express interest in acquiring Cease.
The Orioles, who were involved in the Dylan Cease sweepstakes during last year’s trade deadline, particularly lack starting pitching depth. With their left-handed workhorse, Kyle Gibson, now a free agent, Cease could be the perfect upgrade for the Orioles. Additionally, the Orioles possess the necessary prospects to strike a deal, making them strong contenders in any potential trade involving Cease.