Although the Philadelphia Phillies boast one of MLB’s top starting rotations, there is still potential for improvement. Just a week into the 2025 season, the Phillies received disappointing news about one of the top pitchers available.
In an article by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, he reports that teams can now “cross Dylan Cease off the trade list.” The San Diego Padres’ ace had been a potential trade target before the season, but the team’s strong start has led them to hold onto him.
The Padres are off to an impressive 7-0 start, just a game behind the undefeated 8-0 Los Angeles Dodgers. This hot streak has made them less inclined to part with Cease.
Heyman attributes the Padres’ perfect start as the reason behind their change in stance on Cease, noting that it would be difficult for the team to trade away their top pitcher in light of their strong performance.
Cease has made two appearances for the Padres so far in 2025, posting a 3.38 ERA over 10 and two-thirds innings with 14 strikeouts and just three walks.
The 29-year-old, who has started at least 32 games in each of the past four seasons, finished fourth in Cy Young voting in 2024 and has led MLB in starts in three of those four seasons.
While the Phillies’ current rotation—featuring Zach Wheeler, Aaron Nola, Christopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, and Ranger Suárez—might not have prioritized Cease, he could have been a long-term option, especially since Suárez and Luzardo aren’t signed long-term.
However, based on Heyman’s reporting, the likelihood of Cease joining the Phillies seems slim, as he’s expected to remain with the Padres following their red-hot start. If the Phillies are still seeking a long-term starting pitcher, they will need to explore other options. Fortunately, their current rotation, including Taijuan Walker, has started the season strong.
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