As the Atlanta Braves gear up for the 2023 winter meetings, they find themselves in an enviable position with one of the top rosters in Major League Baseball. However, their appetite for improvement remains insatiable, and the latest buzz in the rumor mill connects them to Chicago White Sox pitcher Dylan Cease.
The Chicago White Sox, currently undergoing a rebuilding phase, are contemplating the possibility of trading their ace starting pitcher, Dylan Cease. While several contenders have expressed interest, the Atlanta Braves have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to acquire Cease during the upcoming winter meetings, according to insights from Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports.
The Braves have strategically created space in their rotation by parting ways with pitchers Mike Soroka and Kyle Wright in separate trades. This move sets the stage for a rotation in 2024 that is anticipated to feature Spencer Strider, Max Fried, Bryce Elder, and Charlie Morton. Dylan Cease, if acquired, would slot in as either the second or third pitcher in Atlanta’s rotation. Despite a less-than-stellar performance in the 2023 season, the 27-year-old right-hander possesses significant untapped talent that could flourish in a more conducive organizational environment.
A notable factor in the potential acquisition is Cease’s roots in Milton, Georgia, making him a hometown player for the Braves. The team has already secured the services of his White Sox teammate, reliever Aaron Bummer, further strengthening the ties.
While both the Braves and the Los Angeles Dodgers have expressed interest in Dylan Cease, the Braves seem to have gained an edge in the pursuit. Cease boasts a commendable track record with a 3.54 ERA over the past three seasons, starting 97 games and striking out 667 batters, contributing to a 121 ERA+.
The White Sox, faced with the reality of an impending true rebuild, may need to consider trading Cease as part of their strategy to infuse new talent into their farm system. Drawing inspiration from their successful acquisitions during the Oakland A’s firesale, where they added Matt Olson and Sean Murphy to their roster, the Braves could replicate a similar approach with the White Sox.
As speculation gains momentum, it appears increasingly likely that the Braves could secure a deal for Dylan Cease, enhancing their pitching rotation and potentially boasting the most formidable rotation, complete with distinctive mustaches, in all of baseball as they enter the 2024 season.
Leave a Reply