REPORT: Padres To Trade $108 Million Ace To AL For Two-Player Package
The San Diego Padres, reportedly looking to shed salary and retool their roster, are considering trading some of their high-value players on expiring contracts. Among the names generating significant buzz is ace Dylan Cease, who is projected to command a $108 million deal in free agency following the 2025 season, per Spotrac.
In light of this, Bleacher Report‘s Zachary Rymer proposed a scenario where Cease is traded to the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles, who recently lost Corbin Burnes to the Arizona Diamondbacks in free agency, now have a glaring need for an ace in their rotation. Here’s the trade package Rymer outlined:
Proposed Trade:
Baltimore Orioles receive:
- RHP Dylan Cease
San Diego Padres receive:
- OF Heston Kjerstad
- OF Enrique Bradfield Jr. (No. 4 prospect in the Orioles’ system)
According to Rymer, the Orioles have both the need and the resources to pursue Cease. Unlike Burnes, who was seen as a likely one-year rental, Cease’s projected free-agent price tag is within Baltimore’s range, making a long-term extension more feasible. Cease, who excelled in the 92nd percentile for whiff rate this year, would provide an immediate upgrade to Baltimore’s rotation while potentially solidifying their pitching for years to come.
From the Padres’ perspective, a deal like this would help them address their financial constraints while bolstering their farm system with two high-upside outfield prospects. Heston Kjerstad brings power and a high ceiling, while Enrique Bradfield Jr. offers elite speed and defensive capabilities.
This trade framework aligns with the Orioles’ goal of remaining competitive in the AL East and the Padres’ need to balance talent retention with payroll management. However, as with all blockbuster trades, whether this deal materializes will depend on both teams’ assessments of their immediate and long-term goals.