July 31: Cease remains with Padres as Deadline passes; will be free agent at end of 2025 A pending free agent, Cease's status was perhaps the most hotly debated subject in the Padres' front office in the weeks leading up to the Trade Deadline on July 31. Despite much speculation, the right-hander ended up staying with San Diego.

Fox Sports recently released their “3 Best Trade Destinations For San Diego Padres RHP Dylan Cease” list, with the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies mentioned. All three of those teams have aspirations of a deep, October run, and would likely willingly sacrifice extra for Cease’s services.

Will Sammon of The Athletic recently reported that New York could deal from its infield depth to fill other needs. The Mets have a quartet of young, cost-controlled contributors in Brett Baty, Mark Vientos, Ronny Mauricio and Luisangel Acuña to dangle on the market.