Padres Expected to Trade Dylan Cease to NL Contender This Season
The San Diego Padres are reportedly open to trade discussions involving ace Dylan Cease, though a move is unlikely before the season begins. Instead, the team may consider trading him closer to the deadline if they find themselves out of playoff contention. Despite having a talented roster, the Padres face tough competition in the National League, which could push them toward selling assets if they struggle in the standings.
Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller recently predicted that San Diego could deal Cease to the Atlanta Braves in a blockbuster midseason trade. He noted that if teams like Arizona, Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and Philadelphia perform as expected, the Padres might be better off trading Cease rather than losing him for nothing in free agency.
Miller also highlighted the limited trade history between Padres general manager A.J. Preller and Braves executive Alex Anthopoulos, suggesting that this could be the opportunity for a significant deal between the two. Since joining the Braves in 2017, Anthopoulos has only made one minor trade with Preller, but Cease’s availability could change that.
If a trade were to happen, the Padres could expect a strong return, likely including one of Atlanta’s top pitching prospects along with additional players. Given that Cease is set to hit free agency next offseason, San Diego may have little choice but to move him. Spotrac projects Cease to command a $108 million contract in free agency, but his value could rise even higher.
For Atlanta, acquiring Cease alongside the return of Spencer Strider from the injured list would give them one of the most dominant starting rotations in baseball. This move could significantly boost the Braves’ chances of making another deep postseason run, potentially leading them to another World Series title.
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