The Chicago Cubs have been making some significant moves this offseason, shaking things up with two notable trades involving the Houston Astros. Out with Cody Bellinger and in with Kyle Tucker, the Cubs have upgraded their roster, all while securing Ryan Pressly to bolster their bullpen. With the current landscape of the National League Central being relatively weak, the Cubs are positioning themselves as serious contenders for the division title in 2025.
However, the buzz doesn’t stop there. As the trade deadline approaches, the Cubs may be eyeing additional pieces to enhance their postseason ambitions. The idea of going “all in” to acquire key talents has started to circulate, and one name drawing attention is San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease.
Mike Axisa of CBS Sports brought Cease’s name into the conversation, noting that several Padres players—especially those pulling in significant salaries without no-trade clauses—are being floated in trade rumors. Traditionally, the need for trade discussions often arises from a team falling out of contention, but the dynamics this year could lead to different outcomes.
Cease’s connection to the Cubs adds an intriguing layer to this potential deal. Drafted by Chicago in 2014, he became a part of the team’s history before being traded to the Chicago White Sox in 2017, a transaction that brought left-hander Jose Quintana to the Cubs. Now, with Cease’s tenure with the Padres and his status as a player in the final year of his contract, discussions about his future are certainly heating up.
Last season, Cease showcased his skills, wrapping up the year with a 14-11 record and a solid 3.47 ERA across 33 starts. His impressive 4.1 WAR and 224 strikeouts over 189 1/3 innings demonstrate his capacity to dominate on the mound. If the Cubs were to secure his services by the trade deadline, it could very well give them the edge they need to solidify their lead in the NL Central and potentially make a deep run in the playoffs.
As the summer progresses, all eyes will be on Cease and whether he indeed becomes available. The Cubs have positioned themselves well, and a strategic addition like Cease could redefine their trajectory heading into the postseason. Fans should brace for what could become an exciting chapter in this offseason saga.
