The Los Angeles Dodgers entered the offseason with a clear focus on bolstering their starting rotation, aiming to address both high-level talent and depth. Throughout the offseason, the team has been linked to Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease, who is reportedly available for trade as the White Sox undergo a significant rebuild. However, the cost associated with acquiring Cease has been steep, and no team has yet met the White Sox’s asking price. Despite initial interest, the Dodgers’ pursuit of Cease has diminished since their signing of Japanese right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto, according to reports.
Rotation Reinforcements and Yamamoto’s Impact:The Dodgers have already made substantial moves to fortify their rotation this offseason. They made a notable acquisition in Tyler Glasnow and secured the signing of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, giving them two top-tier starters at the forefront of their rotation. The addition of Yamamoto significantly shifted the Dodgers’ interest in pursuing a trade for Cease, as reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.
Cease’s Performance and Trade Prospects:Dylan Cease had a breakout season in 2022, posting impressive numbers with a 2.20 ERA, 3.10 FIP, and 1.11 WHIP in 184 innings. This performance earned him a second-place finish for the American League Cy Young Award. While he experienced some regression in the 2023 season, finishing with a 4.58 ERA and 1.42 WHIP, his 3.72 FIP suggests that improved defensive support could enhance his effectiveness. Cease, currently 28 years old, is under team control through the 2025 season via salary arbitration, making him an appealing asset for any team acquiring him this offseason.
White Sox’s Trade Considerations:White Sox general manager Chris Getz has expressed that he does not feel compelled to trade Cease this offseason, given his remaining team control. However, waiting to trade him could potentially decrease his trade value, putting the White Sox in a less favorable position moving forward. Reports suggest that the White Sox may wait until the top free agent starting pitchers, such as Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery, are off the market to increase the likelihood of teams being willing to overpay.
Interest from Other Teams:Other teams reportedly interested in Dylan Cease include the Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets. Among them, the Orioles are considered the frontrunners due to their need for rotation upgrades and the prospect capital they possess. However, the Orioles have been hesitant to part with their top prospects in previous trade discussions.
As the Los Angeles Dodgers actively seek to reinforce their starting rotation during the offseason, Dylan Cease’s name has emerged as a potential trade target. However, following the acquisition of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers’ interest in Cease appears to have waned. The White Sox, for their part, have not felt compelled to trade Cease during this offseason, given his remaining team control. While other teams have expressed interest in acquiring Cease, the Orioles are currently viewed as the frontrunners. The baseball world eagerly awaits further developments in the trade market as teams navigate their roster needs ahead of the upcoming season.