Dylan Cease Trade Unlikely Despite Yankees’ Interest, White Sox Postpone Discussions With Regular Season in Sight

One of the longest-running stories of this offseason was Dylan Cease’s potential trade. The former Cy Young finalist had many teams behind him, including the New York Yankees. However, the Chicago White Sox’s huge price served as a good deterrent for the pitcher. A trade could still be possible, with two years remaining in his contract. But as of now, the timing has changed.

The White Sox had always planned to start their season with Cease without a great offer. The team is coming off a historically terrible season and having their ace with them is a huge confidence booster. Moreover, there’s a clear plan here – the team knows they’re in an advantageous position concerning Cease’s contract. That makes this decision to wait till July all the more reasonable.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, despite great interest, the White Sox “never came close” to receiving an offer that could tempt them. This included the Yankees, who were in talks for a long time but reportedly left the table because the Sox had asked for Spencer Jones. So as it stands, the White Sox are heading into the Opening Day with Cease as their starting pitcher. More importantly, this has opened the doors for a deadline-day rush.

Ever since Dylan Cease became available, there were murmurs that the White Sox wanted to bet on a deadline-day trade. As is known, the deadline day provides teams with a bunch of desperate buyers. The ChiSox are looking to capitalize on those desperate actions. Add that impetuousness with two years of Cease – the White Sox may have a treasure in their hands.

So it does make sense why they’d want to wait till the deadline day. At least till July 30, Cease can contribute to their season. In a way, this is a win-win scenario for the White Sox, especially as injuries have ravaged their pitching staff currently.

Read more: Stat Battle: Why Yankees Prefer Dylan Cease Over 2x Cy Young Winner Blake Snell

Dylan Cease lowers the injury pain of the Chicago White Sox

As of March 10, seven pitchers are set to miss the season’s opening for the White Sox. With such a huge number of injuries affecting their staff, it’s understandable why the team was reluctant to part ways with Cease. Despite a below-average 2023, Cease remains commanding on the mound. Also, a good performance will only increase his value – that directly benefits the White Sox during a trade. Still, this strategy could also prove to be a risky gambit.

What if Cease gets injured? That would completely ruin whatever trade plans the Chi Sox had for him. However, as of now, that is just a speculation. Cease is set to lead the line for the White Sox and that is a massive development in this ever-running story.

Read more: New York Yankees Rumors: Bombers Eye Dylan Cease, Top Prospect’s Proposed Inclusion Blocks Massive Trade