Report: Yankees Likely To Pass On Trade For Oft-Linked Starter After Cole Injury

March 12, 2025 ,

The New York Yankees will be without ace Gerrit Cole for the entire 2025 season following Tommy John surgery, but a major trade to replace him does not appear likely. 

MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reported that the Yankees are not expected to acquire San Diego Padres starter Dylan Cease, citing the team's reluctance to take on additional payroll. 

“The expectation in the industry over the last 24 hours is that Dylan Cease is not going to be traded to the Yankees to save their rotation in light of the Gerrit Cole injury,” Morosi said.

San Diego has shown little interest in moving Cease, who went 14-11 with a 3.47 ERA and 224 strikeouts in 189.1 innings last season. 

The Padres, already thin on starting pitching, remain focused on competing rather than selling. Even if Cease were available, the Yankees would need to part with top prospects such as Jasson Domínguez or George Lombard Jr., a steep price for a potential one-year rental. 

The same challenge exists with Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara, who is under contract through 2027 and would require an even greater return.

Instead of a blockbuster deal, New York could explore lower-cost options in free agency.

With Luis Gil and Clarke Schmidt also sidelined, the Yankees face a lot of uncertainty in their rotation as Opening Day nears. 

Without Cole, the team must rely on Carlos Rodón and Marcus Stroman while hoping internal options like Will Warren can help stabilize the staff.

Photo Credit: Dave Nelson-Imagn Images

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | NHL Rumors