Fansided · Dec 2, 2025
3 far cheaper options who can seamlessly replace Dylan Cease with Padres
Dylan Cease went to a higher bidder, but the Padres still have room to get creative with cheaper arms who can keep the rotation afloat.
Colorado Rockies v San Diego Padres | Orlando Ramirez/GettyImagesThe San Diego Padres didn’t just miss out on Dylan Cease, they watched the exact line of their comfort level get drawn in permanent marker.
Seven years and $210 million with deferrals was always going to be too rich for a team already tied up in long-term money. The Padres might need a frontline starter, but they don’t need another contract that could clog the books well into the next competitive window.