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

The New York Yankees’ story with Blake Snell has taken another turn—only this time it could be conclusive. The topsy-turvy links between the Cy Young winner and the Bronx Bombers have led to some confusion. On one hand, one can see that the Pinstripes aren’t rushing towards Snell, but then some reports indicate that their stance has changed. Now, amidst these mixed signals, another bombshell has dropped. 

For a brief period, the Bronx Bombers were genuinely interested in Dylan Cease. The Chicago White Sox’s ace looked the most suitable out of possible pitching targets. However, the talks collapsed when the Chi-Sox asked for top prospect Spencer Jones. On hearing this, the Yankees bailed from the scene. If reports are to be believed, the Yankees might prefer Cease over Snell due to a variety of reasons.

The neck-to-neck competition between Dylan Cease and Blake Snell

Bob Nightengale of the USA Today reported that the New York Yankees prefer Dylan Cease over Blake Snell. In simple terms, at this stage of the offseason, the Bronx Bombers prefer trading over outright signing a free agent. But that begs the question: Do they see Cease as being better suited to the Pinstripes than Snell? Taking into account the data from Stathead, perhaps it’s time to dive deep into the last three seasons of Cease and Snell.

From 2021 to 2023, both Snell and Cease have seen quite a few ups and downs. Interestingly, it’s Cease who has the higher WAR—he has 11.9 to Snell’s 9.4. Not only that, out of 11 points, Cease leads by 7. The White Sox ace has played more games than Snell (97 to 83). He has pitched more innings as well (526.2 to 436.2) and has a better record (34-24 to 29-25). It’s quite surprising how Cease dominates these numbers. 

But then Snell has a better ERA (3.15 to 3.54) and an ERA+ (125 to 121). While Cease has more strikeouts (667 to 575), Snell has a better strikeout percentage (31.5 to 29.8). So while Cease takes the cake on longevity, Snell wins when it comes to hard skills and ERA. In a way, one can understand why the Yankees prefer Cease over Snell.

But there are a few issues that the Bronx Bombers will have to face with either of these two pitchers.

High costs or big prospects—The Yankees dilemma 

The Chicago White Sox are still adamant in their demand for Spencer Jones. However, the 22-year-old is the crowning jewel of the Yankees farm, and because of this, they aren’t ready to part ways with him. Even if they find common ground, Cease will be an expensive signing due to there being 2 years left in his contract.

Read more: How the Yankees Can Maximize Both Alex Verdugo and Trent Grisham’s Talents

On the other hand, a short-term deal with Snell would further pressure the Bombers’ payroll. That 110% tax has no doubt left the Yankees a little worried. So as it stands, the story is still developing for the Bombers in their search for a starting pitcher.

Read more: Top Yankees Prospect Spencer Jones Outpaces Nearly Everyone but Three in MLB