Boston Red Sox Continue to Build: Could Dylan Cease Be the Final Piece?
The Boston Red Sox have had a standout offseason, making significant roster upgrades that have set them up as legitimate contenders heading into the 2025 MLB season. With the additions of star infielder Alex Bregman and frontline pitchers Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler, Boston has injected both talent and championship experience into its lineup.
Despite these moves, there remains speculation that the Red Sox might not be done just yet. While their major roster needs have been addressed, there could still be room for one more high-impact addition—especially if it means turning their current depth into an elite upgrade.
That opportunity could come in the form of San Diego Padres ace Dylan Cease. According to NESN’s Tim Crowley, Cease could be a prime trade target for Boston as the Padres continue to seek offensive firepower.
“San Diego is reportedly in the market for another bat, and the Red Sox have plenty of cost-controlled options to potentially offer,” Crowley noted. “Do the Red Sox need another frontline starter? No. Would they benefit from turning roster balancing into another star? Absolutely.”
Cease, who just turned 29, has been one of the most durable starters in baseball, leading the league in starts in three of the last four seasons. In 2024, he posted a 3.47 ERA across 189 2/3 innings while racking up 224 strikeouts—the third-most in all of MLB. If Boston were to land Cease, it would mark the first time since 2019 that the Red Sox had multiple pitchers surpass the 200-strikeout mark in a season, with Crochet also accomplishing the feat last year.
Financially, Cease’s $13.5 million salary is manageable, particularly given that Boston is only over the first Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) threshold. The Red Sox have the flexibility to make a move if they see fit.
Another factor in play is the minor injury concerns across Boston’s pitching staff. While none appear to be long-term issues, adding an elite arm like Cease could provide valuable insurance and strengthen an already formidable rotation. Potential trade chips could include right-hander Kutter Crawford or outfielder Wilyer Abreu, both of whom could fit well in San Diego’s plans.
While the Red Sox are already in great shape for the upcoming season, the pursuit of Dylan Cease could be the move that elevates them from contenders to true World Series favorites. Whether Boston pulls the trigger on another blockbuster remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—the Red Sox are serious about making a deep postseason run in 2025.
