The Chicago White Sox have inked a deal with pitcher Dylan Cease for the 2024 MLB season, agreeing to a $8 million contract, as confirmed by Robert Murray, our MLB Insider at FanSided. This veteran pitcher, who secured the second spot in Cy Young voting in 2022, has been both a standout and faced challenges recently, with a notable dip in performance during the 2023 season.
Despite the White Sox reportedly seeking a high return, including multiple top prospects, for Cease in potential trade talks, his $8 million salary for 2024 might make the deal more enticing for teams in need of quality pitching. While there’s still the question of Cease’s arbitration eligibility for 2025, teams may view his 2024 salary as a reasonable investment, especially if he regains his 2022 form or maintains consistency.
Cease’s control on the mound has been a point of contention, with a high walk rate, but his ability to strike out batters remains a significant asset. His career average of almost 11 strikeouts per nine innings showcases his prowess. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his trade value, Cease’s on-field contributions, highlighted by a cumulative 12.6 Wins Above Replacement over the last three seasons, make him an attractive proposition.
The allure of acquiring Cease for $8 million might lead some teams, like the Reds or Orioles, to consider parting with top prospects to bolster their pitching roster. In the competitive landscape of the MLB, the impact of a seasoned pitcher like Cease, especially in pivotal postseason scenarios, could prove invaluable.
As the Hot Stove season continues, the spotlight remains on Cease as a sought-after target for teams eyeing a significant addition to their rotation. The looming question is whether any team is prepared to meet the White Sox’s asking price for this talented pitcher.