The New York Mets' should be investigating' a historic trade for the $13 million superstar from the Padres.

The New York Mets' should be investigating' a historic trade for the $13 million superstar from the Padres.

The New York Mets aren't allowed to look on with their jaws open while the Los Angeles Dodgers, properly, celebrate a fantastic offseason.

Indeed, the Dodgers defeated the Mets in the NLCS, won the World Series, and signed a potential half-dozen additional All-Stars to begin the 2025 season. However, the Mets must continue to concentrate on their own roster.

Whether first baseman Pete Alonso returns or not, the Mets should have one of the best attacks in Major League Baseball after making their first offseason splash in December with the acquisition of Juan Soto.

However, there are still some unanswered questions regarding the pitching staff. Additionally, even if the team seems to be moving away from arranging a reunion with Alonso, they might try to use part of the funds they had saved for him to get an ace through a trade.

San Diego Padres standout right-hander Dylan Cease was listed by SNY's Danny Abriano on Tuesday as a top trade target for the Mets to pursue before to the start of the season.

"The Mets... should be exploring what it might take to pry someone like Dylan Cease from the Padres," Abriano stated.

"Just Jesse Winker and A.J. Minter cannot be their pivot while the Alonso negotiations are at least on hold. Whether or not Alonso is ultimately involved, more is required.

Last season, Cease, 29, pitched 189 2/3 innings with a 3.47 ERA and 224 strikeouts. In addition to recording his first career no-hitter against the Washington Nationals in D.C., he was fourth in the NL Cy Young votes.

If the Padres are indeed desperate to reduce payroll and drop below the competitive balance tax threshold, Cease, who is entering his final year of team control with a salary of $13.75 million, is a clear contender to be traded.

As brutal as it may sound, the Mets should try to take advantage of the Padres' tight financial situation, even though there's no guarantee he's traded. Although it would be wonderful to have an extension past the 2025 season, New York might wait to deal about that issue.