The New York Yankees have been dealt a significant setback regarding their ace, Gerrit Cole. The star pitcher has been dealing with soreness in his throwing elbow, a development that has raised concerns within the organization. As a result, Cole has undergone further medical testing, but the outlook appears worrisome. With the possibility of an extended absence, the Yankees are forced to pursue another top-tier starting pitcher to bolster their rotation.
CBS Sports’ Dayn Perry recently suggested that the Yankees could explore a blockbuster trade for San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease if Cole’s condition worsens. Cease, a dominant right-hander, is projected by Spotrac to land a $108 million deal in free agency after the 2025 season.
The Padres are in cost-cutting mode and may be inclined to move Cease and his $13.25 million salary as he enters his final year before free agency, Perry wrote. The 29-year-old is coming off a stellar 2024 season, where he struck out 224 batters over 189 ⅓ innings, posted a 3.10 FIP, and finished fourth in the NL Cy Young race. His consistency is undeniable, having surpassed 200 strikeouts in each of the last four seasons while accumulating an impressive 16.0 WAR over that span.
Despite trade rumors, the Padres are in no rush to move Cease and are demanding a significant return in any potential deal. San Diego holds all the leverage, as they are not obligated to trade their ace unless they receive an offer that meets their high asking price. The Yankees, looking for a short-term replacement for Cole, could put together a trade package featuring promising young talents like Will Warren or Spencer Jones to entice the Padres.
While acquiring Cease would be a rental, the Yankees have the financial flexibility to sign him long-term in free agency next offseason if they choose to do so. With the regular season approaching, New York’s front office may have some difficult decisions ahead, depending on the severity of Cole’s injury.
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