MLB Rumors: Rangers & White Sox Talking Blockbuster Trade

The Chicago White Sox and the Texas Rangers have reportedly engaged in trade discussions centered around star pitcher Dylan Cease.

Reports suggest that both teams are actively engaged in negotiations, with Cease's promising talent and track record making him a coveted asset on the trade market.

A Dylan Cease trade, whether to the Rangers or another team, is "plausible" before Opening Day, according to top insiders such as Ken Rosenthal and Jon Morosi.

Despite a slightly underwhelming performance in 2023, Cease's history of over 200 strikeouts per season and remaining club control make him an appealing target for the Rangers as they seek to strengthen their rotation for the upcoming season.

A Dylan Cease trade before Opening Day is seen as plausible, a source told me this morning, based on the volume of recent conversations with the Rangers and Yankees.

The Padres also have been involved in talks, as I just reported on @MLBNetwork.@670TheScore @nbcsandiego

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) March 13, 2024

In exchange for Cease, the White Sox are reportedly eyeing a package that could include utility man Ezequiel Durán and pitching prospects Brock Porter and Jack Leiter.

The 20-year-old Porter made his minor-league debut last season, pitching to a solid 2.47 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, with 95 strikeouts over 69.1 innings and 21 starts. He's the 88th-ranked prospect in the MLB and the Rangers' 4th-ranked prospect.

Leiter, the 2nd overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, holds a 5.37 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, with 223 strikeouts across 177.2 innings and 43 appearances. The 23-year-old is the Rangers' 8th-ranked prospect.

The Yankees and Rangers are reportedly among teams recently linked to White Sox RHP Dylan Cease in trade talks. #MLBNHotStove pic.twitter.com/dv9ctXQn4Y

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 13, 2024

These prospects rank among the top in the Rangers' farm system, indicating that the White Sox are seeking a significant return for their prized pitcher.

With both teams showing seriousness in exploring a potential deal, the presence of White Sox scouts at the Rangers camp emphasizes the ongoing negotiations.

For the Rangers, the decision to potentially part ways with promising prospects like Porter and Leiter in exchange for Cease reflects a calculated effort to fortify their roster and address immediate pitching needs, as they look to repeat as World Series champions. Photo Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports