The Baltimore Orioles have unveiled the trade package they offered for Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease. Despite previously expressing interest in both Corbin Burnes and Cease during the offseason, the Orioles surprised many by acquiring Burnes instead. Although Cease has one more year on his contract, the Orioles are reportedly prepared to meet Burnes’ contract demands next offseason.
While the Orioles secured Burnes, they did extend an offer for Cease. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Orioles presented a package similar to the one offered for Burnes, with an additional unnamed player included. The White Sox reportedly view the return for Burnes as the baseline for what they should expect in a Cease trade.
The timing of Cease’s potential move remains uncertain, with Spring Training approaching. The White Sox could opt to retain him until the trade deadline, a risky strategy that could yield a more favorable return for Chicago. A contending team might offer significant assets for an ace-caliber pitcher like Cease during the deadline, potentially surpassing offseason trade offers. The Orioles could be among the suitors for Cease again at the deadline, leveraging their prospect pool to bolster their pitching staff for a playoff push.
