Yankees Resume Trade Talks for Dylan Cease Amid Gerrit Cole’s Injury Concerns

The New York Yankees have reignited discussions with the Chicago White Sox regarding starting pitcher Dylan Cease, according to a report by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale on Tuesday.

This development follows concerns over the elbow injury of reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Gerrit Cole, who underwent an MRI on Monday. Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided an update on Cole’s condition, indicating doubts about his readiness for Opening Day.

With Carlos Rodón and Marcus Stroman slated as the next starting pitchers in line, the Yankees seek to fortify their rotation amidst uncertainties. Cease emerges as a prominent target on the trade market for 2024.

The 28-year-old right-hander, a runner-up for the AL Cy Young in 2022, boasts impressive credentials, including 97 starts over the past three seasons, a 3.54 ERA, and stellar strikeout numbers.

While the White Sox have designated Cease as their Opening Day starter, they remain open to trade discussions. However, the latest offer from the Yankees reportedly does not include outfield prospect Spencer Jones, a prized asset in New York’s farm system.

It remains to be seen if the White Sox will adjust their demands or if the Yankees will explore alternative options such as free agents Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery, with Opening Day looming just over two weeks away.