Cubs Eye Potential Reunion with Former draft Pick, Ace Pitcher Dylan Cease
Chicago, IL – The Chicago Cubs are entering a pivotal offseason, and a prominent storyline is developing around the possibility of bringing back right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease, currently a top free agent. As the team assesses its roster needs, Cease’s name has surfaced as a key target, perhaps marking a return to the organization that originally drafted him.
The Cubs have already seen ten players, including Caleb Thielbar and Drew Pomeranz, enter free agency as of November 2nd, creating openings in the roster as they prepare for spring training. While the team is navigating these departures, attention is also focused on high-profile free agents like outfielder Kyle Tucker, projected to command a contract potentially exceeding $450 million.
Though, the Cubs’ pursuit of pitching help is taking center stage. Cease, 29, spent his early career within the Cubs system after being selected in the sixth round of the 2014 MLB Draft. He was later traded to the San Diego padres before the 2024 season as part of a deal that originally sent jose Quintana to the Cubs in July 2017.
The potential for Cease to return to Chicago has generated excitement,with ESPN senior writers identifying the Cubs as a logical and compelling destination for the pitcher. The narrative of a “circular” return – from draft pick to trade piece, and potentially back to the North Side – adds an intriguing layer to the possibility.
Cease’s time in the Cubs’ minor league system was formative, and a return could address a clear need in the Cubs’ pitching rotation.The organization is actively seeking to bolster both its batting lineup and pitching staff without exceeding budgetary constraints. Whether Cease shares positive sentiments about his time with the Cubs remains a key factor in the potential for a reunion.
As the offseason progresses, the Cubs face meaningful decisions that will shape the franchise’s future. The pursuit of Dylan Cease represents a significant piece of this puzzle, offering a blend of strategic enhancement and nostalgic appeal for Cubs fans.