The San Diego Padres remain undecided on whether to add a top-tier arm to bolster their bullpen, as trade speculation continues to swirl. Meanwhile, the New York Mets are actively exploring ways to upgrade their rotation, with Dylan Cease and Michael King emerging as two of their primary targets.
With the Mets looking to strengthen their pitching staff, Cease’s upside makes him the more intriguing option. The former Cy Young finalist possesses the frontline potential that New York desperately needs, while King, though reliable, would be more of a complementary piece rather than an ace.
Former MLB general manager Jim Duquette has laid out a possible trade package that could send Cease to Queens. He likens the potential deal to what the Baltimore Orioles paid for Corbin Burnes but remains skeptical that the Mets would actually pull the trigger.
According to Duquette, the Padres would likely seek major-league-ready talent and top prospects, rather than a package full of long-term projects.
His proposed trade package includes:
- Jett Williams (Mets’ No. 1 prospect, SS) – A high-upside 20-year-old with elite athleticism who could reach San Diego’s lineup quickly.
- Tylor Megill (RHP) – A big-league arm who showed promise late last season and could provide immediate rotation help, especially with Joe Musgrove’s injury concerns.
- Ronald Hernandez (C) – A young, talented catcher to add to San Diego’s farm system.
While the package is hefty, Cease’s elite strikeout ability (224 Ks last season) and 3.47 ERA make him one of the most desirable pitchers on the trade market.
The big question: Would the Mets sacrifice six years of club control over Williams, plus two additional key pieces, for just one year of Cease?
Cease’s impact would be immediate, significantly boosting the Mets’ rotation, but the cost is steep. If New York is serious about competing for a postseason spot in 2025, this could be the kind of all-in move that transforms their pitching staff.
For now, the Padres remain in decision-making mode, while the Mets must weigh whether to take a win-now gamble or hold onto their future stars.
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