Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees Resume Dylan Cease Trade Talks

The New York Yankees have reignited discussions with the Chicago White Sox and submitted a fresh proposal for starting pitcher Dylan Cease, according to a report by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale on Tuesday.

This development follows concerns over the health of reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole, who underwent an MRI on his elbow on Monday. Manager Aaron Boone provided an update on Cole’s condition on Tuesday, expressing doubts about his availability for Opening Day.

With Carlos Rodón and Marcus Stroman slated as the next two starting pitchers for the Yankees, the team is exploring options to bolster their rotation. However, neither Rodón nor Stroman possesses the status of a true ace, and the team’s pitching depth beyond them is uncertain.

Amidst this backdrop, Cease emerges as a prime trade target entering the 2024 season.

The 28-year-old right-hander, who finished as the AL Cy Young runner-up in 2022, boasts an impressive track record. Over the past three seasons, he leads all MLB pitchers with 97 starts, compiling a 34-24 record with a 3.54 ERA, 1.257 WHIP, and 11.4 strikeouts per nine innings. Additionally, Cease has accrued a 11.8 WAR during this period.

Despite the White Sox designating Cease as their Opening Day starter, the team has remained open to trade discussions involving their ace.

In the latest offer from the Yankees, outfield prospect Spencer Jones was notably absent. Jones, ranked as the No. 2 player in New York’s farm system and the No. 84 prospect in baseball, has long been considered a valuable asset in potential trade negotiations for a starting pitcher.

It remains uncertain whether the White Sox will adjust their asking price for Cease, or if the Yankees will opt to pursue alternatives such as free agents Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery, who are among the top available pitchers in the market as Opening Day approaches in just over two weeks.