Could Chicago Cubs Put Together Package to Land White Sox Ace in Blockbuster Deal?

The Chicago Cubs might be able to put together a trade package that could land them one of the game's best pitchers.

It seems like it's just a matter of time before the Chicago Cubs make their final big move of the offseason.

Everyone seems convinced it will be a reunion between them and Cody Bellinger, bringing an elite defender and power bat back into their lineup. However, without that deal getting done yet, there is some speculation the Cubs might have their eyes set on another player.

Free agency seems the most likely way they'll land this piece they're searching for, but maybe they are figuring out at trade package they can put together to land Dylan Cease from the Chicago White Sox.

It certainly will be a steep price to meet.

The White Sox are interested in moving their ace, but only for the right return.

Teams have not been able to justify spending the type of capital that it would take to get the 2022 AL Cy Young runner-up onto their roster.

But, their general manager Chris Getz said that teams are still inquiring and making offers.

"Teams are still calling. They are still trying to work on a deal that works for both sides. If there's a match somewhere, we'll do it."

The Cubs certainly have a farm system that could meet the asking price of the White Sox. Their pipeline has been rated as top-five by multiple grading sites.

Landing Cease would be a huge get for Chicago.

Justin Steele had a tremendous year in 2023 and they were able to sign Shota Imanaga this offseason, but there are still some questions facing this unit.

Jameson Taillon was shaky and Kyle Hendricks has battled injuries the past few seasons. If Steele regresses and Imanaga struggles in his first Major League action, the starting group might not be good enough to contend.

Adding Cease to the top of their rotation would change that.

He's started 97 games the past three years, striking out over 200 batters per season during this time.

Cease is also under club control for two more years, so the package the Cubs have to put together will be substantial.

Getz also said he's comfortable entering the upcoming season with Cease on the roster, meaning he'll wait for the right return if he's going to ship out his ace.