Dylan Cease could be one a game-changer for a number of clubs if he is available on the trade market (Photo Source: IMAGN)Dylan Cease could be one a game-changer for a number of clubs if he is available on the trade market (Photo Source: IMAGN)

Dylan Cease has developed into one of the best pitchers, finishing in the top four in Cy Young Award voting in two of the last three seasons. After spending five seasons with the Chicago White Sox, Cease made the high-profile move to the San Diego Padres last season and did not disappoint.

Over 189.1 innings with the Padres, Cease posted an impressive 3.47 ERA with 224 strikeouts and a career-best 1.07 WHIP. All this being said, Cease will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2025 season, leading to rumors that the club is looking to move him to recoup value and lower payroll ahead of the new year.

If the Padres opt to trade Cease, they should be able to command a decent package in return. While it will not be close to the Juan Soto return they received last offseason, the Friars should still be able to land some impactful pieces for the future or the 2025 season.

Here’s a closer look at 3 potential landing spots for Dylan Cease if he is dealt by San Diego

#1 – Baltimore Orioles

There is no team more perfectly set up to not only have the need for a talent like Cease but also the trade assets to get the blockbuster deal than the Baltimore Orioles.

Over the last few years, the Orioles have been building up one of the best farm systems in baseball and have too many quality prospects than open spots in the lineup.

Thanks to this log jam of young talent, the Orioles are primed to move one or two prospects to help bolster their pitching staff. After losing Corbin Burnes to free agency, the O’s could pivot to a deal for Cease, even if it means only one season of his services.

#2 – New York Mets

The New York Mets are no strangers to make blockbuster moves and trading for Dylan Cease could be the next one. The Mets were one of the teams linked to Corbin Burnes in free agency. However, after missing out on him, they could look to bring in Cease.

The Mets have World Series ambitions and their pitching staff leaves something to be desired. Cease could be an x-factor for the Mets in 2025.

#3 – Cleveland Guardians

The Cleveland Guardians could be a dark horse landing spot for Dylan Cease. The Guardians are one of the top teams in the American League. However, their starting rotation needs to improve if they are going to make a significant postseason run.

After winning the AL Central in 2024 without a true ace, Cease could help push them over the edge this upcoming campaign.