The Baltimore Orioles are entering the 2025 season with a pressing need to secure playoff victories, as they have not won a playoff game in a decade. The focus is on enhancing their starting rotation, which has been weakened by the departure of ace Corbin Burnes to the Arizona Diamondbacks. While the rotation isn't terrible, it lacks the intimidation factor that comes with a true ace.
The signing of Tomoyuki Sugano from NPB adds depth, but he is not viewed as a top-tier ace. With the majority of free agents signed, the Orioles are looking at trades to bolster their lineup, particularly targeting San Diego Padres pitcher Dylan Cease. A proposed trade would send outfielder Heston Kjerstad and top prospect Enrique Bradfield Jr. to the Padres in exchange for Cease, who is entering his prime at 29.
Cease's consistency over the past four seasons makes him an appealing candidate to lead the Orioles' rotation. However, the challenge lies in his impending free agency after the 2025 season, necessitating an immediate extension if a trade is executed. The Orioles must weigh the risks and rewards carefully, as acquiring Cease could be the key to revitalizing their playoff aspirations.
