Braves Face Hurdle in Pursuit of Hometown Star Dylan Cease
The Atlanta Braves are on the lookout for starting pitching this offseason, and one name has emerged as an intriguing possibility: Dylan Cease. The Georgia native, who hails from Milton, has the potential to enhance the Braves’ rotation while bringing a local flavor to the team. However, a significant obstacle stands in the way of this dream scenario—his agent, Scott Boras.
Cease’s Track Record and Potential Impact
Dylan Cease’s statistics from the previous season may give some pause. He recorded a 4.55 ERA and a 1.32 WHIP, reflecting a year that fell short of expectations. Yet, it’s important to note that this was his fifth consecutive season with at least 32 starts, showcasing a level of durability that the Braves desperately need. In fact, no Braves pitcher managed to reach 30 starts last season, highlighting the critical gap Cease could fill. Despite his recent struggles, he’s expected to be an impactful arm for any team willing to take a chance on him.
The Complication of Scott Boras
While the prospect of signing Cease is alluring, the involvement of Scott Boras complicates matters. The Braves have a rocky history with the prominent agent, particularly in recent years. Their most notable interaction came in 2019 when they signed Dallas Keuchel, but the relationship since then has been less than cooperative. Although the Braves have shown interest in Cease in the past, including their recent acquisition of Ha-Seong Kim—who is also represented by Boras—there is an underlying tension that cannot be ignored.
It’s worth mentioning that signing Cease may not be the only challenge posed by Boras. A substantial number of the top free-agent starting pitchers available this winter share the same agent. This could limit the Braves’ options significantly and force them into difficult negotiations if they aim to make a splash in the free-agent market.
Future Considerations for the Braves
As the Braves consider their offseason moves, Cease remains a compelling target, but the realities of the situation remind fans and analysts alike that nothing is guaranteed. The team’s recent history with Boras serves as a cautionary tale when evaluating potential signings.
While the hope remains that the Braves can secure a talented pitcher to bolster their rotation, the road to acquiring a player like Cease is fraught with challenges. As fans eagerly await offseason developments, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most promising options come with unseen hurdles. The Braves will need to navigate these complexities as they work toward strengthening their roster for the upcoming season.
