The New York Yankees have received troubling news regarding their ace, Gerrit Cole, who has been dealing with soreness in his throwing elbow. This has raised significant concern within the organization, prompting the Yankees to send Cole for further testing.
With the situation looking increasingly dire, New York may be forced to search for a pitcher to replace their star. CBS Sports’ Dayn Perry recently suggested that if Cole’s injury worsens, the Yankees could explore a major trade for San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease. Spotrac projects that Cease will sign a deal worth $108 million when he hits free agency after the 2025 season.
Perry noted that the Padres are in cost-cutting mode and might be open to moving Cease and his $13.25 million salary as he enters his final year before free agency. The 29-year-old right-hander is coming off an impressive 2024 season, where he struck out 224 batters over 189 ⅓ innings, posted a 3.10 FIP, and finished fourth in the NL Cy Young voting.
- Dylan Cease
Cease has consistently been dominant, surpassing 200 strikeouts in each of the past four seasons and accumulating a WAR of 16.0 during that period. However, the Padres are reportedly demanding a hefty return for Cease, as they have no pressing need to trade him and hold significant leverage in any potential deal.
For the Yankees, a trade for Cease could involve a package centered around top prospects like Will Warren or Spencer Jones. While Cease would only be a rental for the season, New York has the financial capacity to sign him long-term when he becomes a free agent next offseason, making this a high-stakes move that could help shore up their pitching staff for the immediate and future seasons.
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