The New York Mets are quietly making moves behind the scenes to bolster their starting rotation, and they may have the upper hand in the race for San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease. With Cease entering the final year of his contract, the Padres are reportedly open to trade discussions, and while the Chicago Cubs are showing interest, the Mets could offer a more compelling package for the star pitcher.
The Mets, with their already solid rotation led by Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea, are eyeing Cease as the final piece to solidify their starting staff. Adding a pitcher with Cease’s pedigree would immediately elevate New York’s pitching depth, especially with his elite strikeout ability. In 2024, Cease posted a 3.47 ERA with 224 strikeouts over 189.1 innings, showcasing his effectiveness as a high-end starter.
San Diego’s decision to explore trade options for Cease and fellow pitcher Michael King, both in the final year of control, could come down to whether they can maximize their return for a one-year rental. The Padres face the prospect of losing both pitchers in free agency, making them more likely to move them while they still can. The Cubs, with one of the deeper farm systems in baseball, could offer a tempting package, but the Mets have the potential to match or even surpass it.
Jon Heyman reports that while the Cubs’ prospect list is impressive, the Padres may favor the Mets’ selection of young talent, including infielders like Luisangel Acuña and Jett Williams, both highly regarded prospects. Acuña, in particular, is seen as a strong trade piece given his combination of hitting ability and speed. Additionally, pitcher Brandon Sproat could be included in talks, but the Mets may need to offer a higher-level prospect to seal the deal.
One key factor to consider is the difference in team control for Cease. With only one year left on his deal, the Padres are less likely to demand the top-tier prospects that they might for a pitcher with multiple years of control. For the Cubs, this means they are unlikely to part with top prospect Matt Shaw, who remains untouchable in rental deals. On the other hand, the Mets may be willing to offer up a package that includes top-tier talent, as they are looking to make a splash for a championship run in 2025.
Cease’s production in 2024, coupled with his ability to dominate in high-leverage situations, makes him one of the most coveted rental players on the market. While his strikeout rate and ERA are certainly enticing, it’s his track record of success that makes him a potential game-changer for any team. For the Mets, trading for Cease could provide the ace they desperately need, without committing to long-term control.
For the Padres, a trade for Cease would also need to address their future needs. Moving Cease would clear some space in the rotation but would require a strong return to help bolster their future chances. The Mets’ willingness to part with top prospects, especially given their current window of contention, may make their offer more appealing than the Cubs’ or other suitors.
If the Mets do pull the trigger on a deal for Cease, it could send shockwaves through the league. Adding a pitcher of his caliber would significantly enhance their chances in a competitive National League. With multiple top prospects at their disposal, the Mets could take the risk and make a move for Cease, betting that his impact will be enough to push them over the top.
In conclusion, while the Cubs are in the mix for Dylan Cease, the Mets could ultimately emerge as the front-runners in a trade for the Padres’ star pitcher. With their willingness to offer top-tier prospects and their current win-now mentality, New York’s pursuit of Cease could be a game-changing move for their 2025 season. The Mets may have the edge in negotiations, but time will tell if they can seal the deal for one of the top rental pitchers in the market.