The Atlanta Braves need to bolster their starting rotation, which lacked depth in 2024.
Chris Sale was exceptional, capturing the National League Cy Young Award. Max Fried also delivered elite performances but has since joined the New York Yankees. Reynaldo Lopez was effective when healthy, though injuries have limited his potential. Meanwhile, Charlie Morton is now a free agent and is unlikely to return to Atlanta.
To address their needs, the Braves may consider making a blockbuster trade for a top-tier starting pitcher, with the San Diego Padres standing out as an ideal trade partner.
FanSided’s Jacob Mountz recently suggested the Braves pursue Padres ace this offseason. Cease is projected to earn $13 million in 2025 before hitting free agency next winter, where he could command a $108 million contract, according to Spotrac.
“But the main reason Cease is drawing such interest is because of his 2022 performance,” Mountz noted. “That year, Cease finished as runner-up in the AL Cy Young voting, posting a stellar 2.20 ERA despite leading MLB with 78 walks. If the Braves can help him recapture that form—something their coaching staff has a track record of achieving—they could become a championship-caliber team. Cease is owed $13 million next season before reaching free agency.”
Acquiring Cease would come at a steep cost, likely requiring one of the Braves’ top pitching prospects. While Atlanta would aim to retain Spencer Schwellenbach and AJ Smith-Shawver, players like Bryce Elder and Hurston Waldrep could be included in trade discussions with the Padres.
Landing Cease would likely necessitate an even larger package of talent, making this a challenging but logical move for the Braves to explore. While no trade talks have been reported yet, a deal like this could significantly strengthen their rotation and elevate the team’s championship aspirations.
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