Dylan Cease Signs Urgent 7-Year, $210M Deal with Blue Jays

BREAKING NEWS: Free agent starting pitcher Dylan Cease has just signed a monumental seven-year, $210 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. This critical move enhances the Blue Jays’ roster after their recent performance, where they clinched the American League pennant and reached the World Series, ultimately falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in a dramatic Game 7.

Cease, who turned 29 this year, has consistently demonstrated his capabilities as a top-tier pitcher, making at least 32 starts for five consecutive seasons. His impressive track record includes ranking fourth in pitcher WAR during that span, outperforming notable players such as Tarik Skubal, Max Fried, and Framber Valdez. The right-hander’s signing, pending a physical, marks a significant addition to an already formidable team.

In his career, Cease has alternated between standout seasons and less favorable ones. He finished second and fourth in Cy Young voting in 2022 and 2024, respectively, with a combined record of 28-19 and a stellar 2.84 ERA. However, in 2023 and 2025, he struggled, posting a 15-21 record and a 4.57 ERA. Despite these fluctuations, his recent performance has made him a prime target in free agency, especially following a career-best strikeout rate of 29.8% last season.

The Blue Jays’ strategic acquisition of Cease not only impacts their chances for the upcoming season but also adds depth to their pitching lineup, which will be crucial as they aim for another championship run. His signing follows the $22.025 million qualifying offer he declined from the San Diego Padres by the November 18 deadline. As a result, San Diego will receive a compensatory draft pick after the fourth round.

Cease’s career trajectory has been remarkable since he was selected in the sixth round of the 2014 MLB Draft by the Chicago Cubs. He was later traded to the Chicago White Sox in a blockbuster deal involving Jose Quintana and has since established himself as a leading pitcher in the league.

As the baseball world watches, this contract is set to reshape the dynamics of the 2025 MLB season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Cease’s addition will elevate the Blue Jays and whether he can maintain his high strikeout rates while minimizing walks, an area he has struggled with in the past.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Blue Jays prepare for the next season with their new star pitcher.