The Mets and Padres are heading in vastly different directions as 2024 approaches. While New York’s flexing its financial muscle, San Diego’s wrestling with ownership issues that could reshape their roster.
The Mets made their intentions clear by landing Juan Soto for $765 million, showing they’re all-in on competing with the Dodgers for NL supremacy. The Padres, on the other hand, are tightening their belts amid ownership uncertainty.
That’s where Dylan Cease comes in. The 29-year-old ace, who’s set to hit free agency after 2024, might be too expensive for San Diego to keep long-term. He’s exactly the kind of pitcher who could put the Mets over the top – a strikeout machine who’s finished in the Cy Young top-five twice since 2021. Last year, he fanned 224 batters, just four shy of the MLB lead.
The Padres are listening to offers, and there’s an intriguing trade possibility making the rounds. The Baseball Isn’t Boring podcast floated this potential deal:
Mets receive: SP Dylan Cease, RP Robert Suarez
Padres receive: RHP Jett Williams (Mets No. 2 prospect)
Suarez is an interesting piece here. The All-Star closer’s making $10 million in 2025, with a two-year, $16 million player option after that. It’s a contract the Padres might want to move, especially since Suarez could either walk after a year or lock in for two more seasons if he struggles.
For the Mets, giving up Williams is a steep price, but landing two potential All-Stars could transform their pitching staff. The real question isn’t whether New York would pull the trigger – it’s whether San Diego’s financial situation is dire enough to part with both Cease and Suarez in one deal.
Let’s put it this way: if the Padres are truly looking to shed salary while getting maximum value in return, this could be their best opportunity. For the Mets, it’s the kind of bold move that could help them challange the Dodgers’ dominance in the National League.
