Could Phillies Acquire White Sox Ace?

Some are worried that the Philadelphia Phillies, who have had an exceptionally quiet winter, may make a big move just before the new season begins. Signing one of the best free agents still available who they’ve been linked to would undoubtedly be a headline move. But trading for Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease might be their best chance to make a major impact.

The right-hander is coming off a season in which he started 33 games and struck out 214 batters while regressing to a 4.38 ERA. The White Sox have been shopping for Cease for a while, but they haven’t come across a deal that would make them part with the 2022 AL Cy Young runner-up. Their extraordinarily high

asking price is one factor in it. Chicago is seeking many top prospects in return for

the starting player. The Phillies would probably have to part with one of their

top prospects, Aidan Miller and Justin Crawford, if not both. Andrew Painter,

their top overall prospect, may also need to be considered.

Although acquiring Cease would come at a high cost, Philadelphia might give it some thought. The Phillies would acquire

an inexpensive asset with two years of club control left that can help them win

now while also providing protection in the event that Zack Wheeler leaves in

free agency after this season. Aaron Nola would continue to bat in a one-two

partnership with another Cy Young winner as Cease assumed the role of ace.

Though it may sound improbable, general manager of the White Sox Chris Getz stated that some teams are still enquiring about the righty’s availability. Teams are still making calls. They are still attempting to come up with a plan that benefits both parties. We’ll go somewhere if there’s a match,” he said on MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM. Perhaps one of those teams is Philadelphia. A World Series triumph would be within reach if they were to add one of the greatest pitchers in the league to their already outstanding staff.