Yankees Predicted to Trade 'Sneaky' Target to Padres After Dylan Cease News

Newsweek

3 days ago

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The New York Yankees are looking for upgrades ahead of the trade deadline and they might have to part with some big-league talent in order to land them.
As the team looks to recapture a lead in the American League East division and ultimately return to the World Series this fall, its shopping list includes relievers, a third baseman and a starting pitcher capable of slotting in alongside Max Fried, Carlos Rodon and, eventually, Luis Gil. And now a new frontline starter could be on the trade block.
"A surprise name has emerged in the starting pitcher market: Dylan Cease, who will be eligible for free agency at year's end," ESPN's Buster Olney reported. "Perception of other teams is that the (San Diego) Padres are intent on making a push for the playoffs, and would use Cease to help fill other roster needs."
Olney added that "AL East teams" have inquired about Cease and the Yankees might have a player that intrigues the Padres in backup catcher JC Escarra.
CINCINNATI, OHIO - JUNE 27: Dylan Cease #84 of the San Diego Padres seen in action during the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on June 27, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio....
CINCINNATI, OHIO - JUNE 27: Dylan Cease #84 of the San Diego Padres seen in action during the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on June 27, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by) More
Mowry/Getty
"Escarra is a sneaky popular trade target league-wide," CBS Sports' Mike Axisa wrote. "I'm betting on Escarra being a pleasant surprise down the stretch, taking over as the starting catcher, and giving the Padres much more offense behind the plate while being no downgrade defensively. ... The Yankees can afford to trade Escarra because Austin Wells is entrenched as the starting catcher and Ben Rice has begun to see more action behind the plate as a way to get his bat in the lineup."
Though Escarra is a rookie and Cease could be just a rental if he ends up leaving in free agency, a swap of the two would allow the Yankees to fortify an area of need while dealing from one of strength. With the trade deadline rapidly approaching and a long list of needs ahead, that's the kind of move that might appeal to the Bronx Bombers.
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