As the New York Yankees await the results of Gerrit Cole’s MRI, Dylan Cease has re-emerged as a potential target for them.
According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Yankees have put forward a new offer to the Chicago White Sox for the right-handed pitcher, excluding outfield prospect Spencer Jones.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone informed reporters on Monday that Cole underwent an MRI on his right elbow due to challenges in his recovery between starts, likening it to the strain he typically feels during a full 100-pitch outing rather than lighter sessions.
Boone indicated on Tuesday that further tests are scheduled for Cole but refrained from providing an official update. He added that even with positive results, it’s unlikely Cole, the reigning AL Cy Young winner, will be ready for the start of the regular season.
During the offseason, the White Sox actively explored trade options for Cease without reaching a deal, with reports suggesting their high valuation of the 28-year-old contributed to the lack of agreement.
Nightengale noted recent discussions between the White Sox and Yankees about Cease but clarified that no compelling offer had materialized from New York.
Concerns about Cole’s elbow could prompt the Yankees to consider various alternatives. Should they seek an impactful pitcher without parting with significant prospects, free agents like Blake Snell and Jordan Montgomery remain available.
Despite a 4.58 ERA last season influenced by defensive challenges with the White Sox, Cease remains highly regarded, having struck out 214 batters across 177 innings. He has also demonstrated durability with 97 starts over the past three years.
The Yankees’ pitching rotation behind Cole faces uncertainties, with Marcus Stroman recently signed after a 3.95 ERA season with the Chicago Cubs in 2023, and Carlos Rodón aiming for a rebound following a challenging debut season in New York.
Opening Day for the Yankees is set for March 28 against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park, while Cease is slated to start for the White Sox against the Detroit Tigers.