The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees are among the teams closely monitoring starting pitcher Dylan Cease as the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaches on July 31. Cease, who plays for the San Diego Padres and is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, has attracted significant attention amid growing trade speculation in the American League East. The heightened scrutiny comes as both clubs seek to strengthen their pitching rotations before the playoff push.
San Diego Padres Exploring Options With Cease as Trade Asset
The Padres have reportedly expressed interest in moving Dylan Cease to address other roster needs. According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, the Padres view Cease as a potential trade chip in their effort to bolster the team’s postseason chances. Several teams, including those in the AL East such as the Red Sox and Yankees, and the New York Mets, have engaged in discussions about acquiring the right-hander.
A surprise name has emerged in the starting pitcher market: Dylan Cease, who will be eligible for free agency at year’s end,
Olney said.
Perception of other teams is that the Padres are intent on making a push for the playoffs, and would use Cease to help fill other roster needs. Mets, AL East teams, Cubs among teams that have talked about him.
—Buster Olney, ESPN Analyst
Interest Confirmed by Insider Reports From New York Post
Jon Heyman of the New York Post further confirmed that the Padres are open to offers for Cease, with teams like the Yankees, Mets, Cubs, and Red Sox actively inquiring. Heyman emphasized that while San Diego remains a buyer overall, they may still consider trading rental players such as Cease to enhance their lineup.
The Padres are listening on Dylan Cease, with the Yankees, Mets, Cubs and Red Sox among teams believed to have checked in,
Heyman reported.
SD is a buyer but often listens on rentals. Major long shot!
—Jon Heyman, New York Post Reporter
Potential Impact for the Red Sox
A deal involving Dylan Cease would represent a significant development for Boston, which currently has a surplus of outfielders but seeks to add depth to its starting rotation. While no agreement appears imminent, speculation suggests that if Cease is willing to sign an extension with his new club, interest in facilitating a trade could increase. This scenario could trigger notable roster adjustments before the deadline.
Looking Ahead to the Trade Deadline and Playoff Chase
As the trade deadline draws nearer, attention on Dylan Cease is expected to intensify, with several competitive teams in the AL East vying to improve their chances in the playoff race. Both the Red Sox and Yankees are balancing immediate needs with long-term considerations, making Cease a potentially valuable, yet risky, target that could influence their postseason trajectories if a deal comes to pass.