Is a Major Trade Looming Before Spring Training? Join the Debate! 

As we dive deeper into the offseason, the question on everyone's mind is whether we can expect one more blockbuster trade to shake things up. With the major free agents already signed, the trade market is heating up, and it seems like the perfect time for teams to make bold moves.

Dylan Cease has emerged as a prime candidate for a trade, but the recent addition of Nick Pivetta to the Padres complicates things. Does this mean Cease is more likely to stay put, or could it open the door for a different kind of deal? What do you think? Are there other players who could be on the move that we’re not considering?

Let’s also talk about the Braves. After a disappointing season, they have some bounce-back candidates who could make a significant impact. Who do you think is primed for a resurgence, and how might that influence the Braves' strategy moving forward?

I’m curious to hear your predictions. Will we see a major trade before the season kicks off, or is the playing field already set? Share your thoughts, insights, and any wild predictions you might have!

Dylan Cease Watch: Still Sizzling?
Nick Pivetta landing in San Diego might make it look like the Padres are tapping out on Cease, but it could actually grease the wheels for a different trade structure. If anything, acquiring Pivetta gives them flexibility — they could now afford to flip a controllable young pitcher in a Cease trade, or they might pivot entirely.

That said, Cease’s price tag remains high, and with his underwhelming 2023 season (despite the elite 2022), it’s unclear if teams are willing to meet that. The Orioles still make a ton of sense with their stacked farm, and the Dodgers could swoop in if they want to bolster their rotation even further.

Other Trade Candidates Flying Under the Radar:
Shane Bieber – Contract year + solid bounce-back potential.

Jesus Luzardo – The Marlins might cash in if they want to restock the farm.

Tyler O’Neill – Power-speed combo, but injuries and inconsistency may prompt a move.

Brandon Woodruff – If a team is willing to stash him post-surgery for a playoff push.

The Braves’ Bounce-Back Blueprint
Key Bounce-Back Candidates:

Michael Harris II – Sophomore slump? Maybe. But the underlying tools haven’t gone anywhere. If he improves his pitch recognition, he could be a game-changer again.

Austin Riley – He wasn’t bad in 2024, just not quite MVP-level. Don’t be shocked if he comes storming back with a 35+ HR season.

A.J. Minter – Command wavered in ‘24, but if he settles back into his late-inning role with poise, he’ll stabilize the bullpen.

Also, keep an eye on Jarred Kelenic — a former top prospect with raw tools who could thrive with a change of scenery. If the Braves tap into his upside, he might be one of the biggest steals of the offseason.

Bold Prediction Time:
I’ll go out on a limb here:

Dylan Cease gets traded to Baltimore, with the O’s finally deciding to go all-in by parting with a couple of top-15 prospects.

Braves stand pat, but Drake Baldwin makes the roster by June, pushing d’Arnaud into more of a DH/backup role — possibly even trade bait depending on health and performance.

Breakout surprise: JR Ritchie makes a cameo in the bullpen late in the season à la Spencer Strider in 2021.