The Chicago Cubs boast a strong pitching rotation with standout lefties Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele at the helm, along with solid options like Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd. However, the team lacks a powerful right-handed starter, which could create imbalance, especially with two lefties leading the rotation. This issue becomes even more apparent in series, where opposing hitters could easily adjust to facing similar pitcher styles.
Dylan Cease, the San Diego Padres’ right-handed ace, has been a topic of trade rumors throughout the offseason. In a recent proposal by Athlon Sports, Cease would be traded to the Cubs in exchange for outfielder Seiya Suzuki, pitcher Nate Pearson, and catcher prospect Moises Ballesteros.
This is a significant trade, but Cease is considered one of the most valuable pitchers on the market. Suzuki, owed $19 million this year and in 2026 before hitting free agency, could be an appealing addition for the Padres, especially after the departure of Jurickson Profar. Taking on Suzuki’s contract would also allow San Diego to avoid committing to a massive extension for Cease.
Cease has cemented his status as one of the top right-handed pitchers in MLB, finishing fourth in Cy Young voting in 2024 and striking out 224 batters over 189.1 innings. His consistency over the past four years—averaging 33 starts and 179 innings per season—makes him a coveted asset. For the Cubs, adding Cease would elevate their rotation to one of the best in the league.
Moving Pearson, who is beginning to find his rhythm in the majors, could be a smart move. While Suzuki was originally brought up by the Cubs and extended a contract, Chicago has depth in the outfield and strong prospects coming up through the system, making him expendable.