Teams expressing interest in acquiring Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Dylan Cease should be prepared to meet a substantial asking price, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Described by one MLB general manager as “the sun and the moon,” the White Sox’s demands for the talented right-hander are evidently high.
Adding to the intrigue, the White Sox have already designated Cease as their Opening Day starter, suggesting a reluctance to trade him before the commencement of the upcoming season.
Despite a somewhat underwhelming performance in the 2023 season, where Cease recorded 214 strikeouts in 177 innings with a 7-9 record, the 28-year-old hurler remains a valuable asset.
In the previous campaign, Cease experienced a decline in key metrics, including fewer strikeouts, a higher ERA, and a lower WAR compared to his 2022 statistics. Notably, he surrendered a career-high 172 hits and allowed a career-high 98 runs, resulting in a below-average 97 ERA+.
With two years of club control remaining and a scarcity of promising young starting pitchers on the market, the White Sox are in no hurry to finalize a trade.
Facing challenging playoff odds in 2024, the team recognizes the need for significant retooling. Consequently, Cease could become one of the most sought-after names as the July 30 trade deadline approaches.
In early January, ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reported that Chicago is seeking “multiple” high-end prospects and some “fill-ins” in exchange for Cease, indicating a steadfast stance by general manager Chris Getz.
As Cease secures his role as the Opening Day starter, at least for now, there is a sense of assurance that he will begin the season with the White Sox.
