Cubs, Padres Explore Dylan Cease Trade Amid Roster Shakeups

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres have engaged in exploratory discussions regarding a potential trade for right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease, sources confirmed Tuesday. While no deal is imminent, the talks highlight the Padres’ ongoing efforts to address roster gaps and financial constraints.

Cease, 29, is entering the final year of his contract with the Padres, set to earn $13.75 million in 2025. The 2022 American League Cy Young runner-up has been a frequent subject of trade rumors this offseason as San Diego seeks to balance its payroll while filling multiple roster holes. Trading Cease could free up significant salary space, allowing the Padres to pursue outfield or rotation reinforcements.

“The Padres are in a tough spot,” said one league insider. “They need to address their outfield and bench depth, but they also can’t afford to lose too much pitching. Cease is a valuable asset, but they have to weigh the return carefully.”

The Cubs, meanwhile, boast a deep rotation featuring Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, Kyle Hendricks, and Shota Imanaga. Despite their pitching depth, Chicago has reportedly considered consolidating some of their prospects to acquire a front-line starter like Cease. Outfield prospects Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcantara have been mentioned as potential trade pieces, with Caissie—a former Padres draft pick—drawing particular interest.

“The Cubs have the prospect capital to make a deal,” said MLB Network’s Jon Morosi. “A package centered around Caissie and a controllable arm like Jordan Wicks could make sense for both sides.”

Cease’s trade value is bolstered by his consistent performance and durability. Over the past four seasons, he has logged at least 165 innings each year, posting a 3.83 ERA and striking out 11.1 batters per nine innings in 2024. His ability to anchor a rotation makes him an attractive target for contenders.

For the Padres, trading Cease would mark another step in a tumultuous offseason. The team has already parted ways with several key players, including Juan Soto, and faces pressure to remain competitive in a stacked National League West. “We’re not rebuilding,” said Padres general manager A.J. Preller. “We’re retooling to put ourselves in the best position to win.”

The Cubs, on the other hand, are looking to build on a promising 2024 campaign. With a strong farm system and financial flexibility, they could afford to take on Cease’s salary while staying under the $241 million luxury tax threshold. “Adding a pitcher like Cease would give us a legitimate ace,” said Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “But we’re not going to rush into anything.”

As discussions continue, both teams remain cautious. The Padres are reportedly seeking a significant return for Cease, while the Cubs are weighing the cost of acquiring a one-year rental. For now, the trade remains in the exploratory phase, with no resolution expected in the immediate future.