The San Diego Padres have made it obvious that they are not only open to trading Dylan Cease and Michael King, but they actively support the idea. With numerous teams apparently in the mix, including the New York Mets, trade speculation is heating up.
Mets’ Ace Dilemma
As things stand, the Mets will enter the 2025 season without a true ace. Sure, they have strong arms, but there is no clear No. 1 to anchor the rotation. Cease, with a 3.47 ERA and 224 strikeouts last season, might be the closest thing available. His ability to miss bats is uncommon, making him a desirable target for a team in need of a frontline starter.
King, on the other side, quietly exceeded Cease in important areas, with a 2.95 ERA. His peripherals show he was even more effective, therefore he won’t be cheap.
What would it cost?
The Padres aren’t just giving these players away. According to sources, they are seeking at least three top-25 talents for Cease. King, while still valuable, is projected to fetch a slightly lower sum.
Fortunately for the Mets, they have the necessary elements to make anything happen. The team’s infield lineup of Brett Baty, Ronny Mauricio, Jett Williams, and Luisangel Acuña may benefit them. Any of these young players could be used as trade assets. Furthermore, the Mets have several intriguing pitching prospects that could entice San Diego into a trade.
A One-year Gamble
The hitch is that both Cease and King are in their final year of contracts (the latter has a mutual option for 2026). Any team that trades for them is effectively making a one-season bet because both parties exercise mutual options.
If the Mets accept that reality and are prepared to pay the price, they could significantly improve their rotation. Everything depends on if the Mets are willing to take a chance.
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