Dylan Cease
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2020Crushers330001012.2191021357.11
2021Flyers292910013120199.219411190140255.00
2021Crushers221120014.07341511.93
2022Flyers3221919100168.01518358212264.45
2023Flyers323220616110259.21378383295252.88
2024Flyers333316111190245.222612496256334.54
2025Flyers772024044.24125205885.04
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 27 2025Cease (3-7) took the loss Friday against the Reds, giving up four runs (three earned) on five hits and three walks in four innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was able to rack up a whopping 20 whiffs on the evening, but he walked at least three for the fourth time in his last five starts. The 29-year-old right-hander had done a great job of keeping the ball in the yard of late, as he conceded just one home run in his prior six outings to Friday, but he matched a season high with two homers allowed against Cincinnati. Cease will bring a 4.53 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 117:36 K:BB over 91.1 innings into his next appearance, which is projected to come on the road against a formidable Phillies lineup.
Jun 21 2025Cease (3-6) allowed one run on three hits and three walks while striking out four over 6.2 innings to earn the win over the Royals on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease limited the damage to an RBI double by John Rave in the third inning. This was Cease's second quality start over four outings in June, and he's allowed 10 runs with a 31:12 K:BB across 23.2 innings this month. He's now at a 4.43 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 109:33 K:BB through 87.1 innings through 16 starts this season. The 29-year-old right-hander is projected to make his next start at Cincinnati.
Jun 17 2025Cease (2-6) took the loss against the Dodgers on Monday, allowing six runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out nine batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease began his outing on fire, striking out the first five batters he faced. However, the right-hander gave up a run in the third on a pair of Dodgers doubles. San Diego reclaimed a one-run lead in the top of the fourth, but Cease couldn't hold it long -- he gave up six knocks (five of which were singles) and hit a batter in the fourth frame as Los Angeles emerged with five runs. There was lots to like about Cease's outing -- he notched nine punchouts and 15 whiffs -- but the veteran pitcher continues to be an enigma. He has an excellent 47:12 K:BB over 33.2 innings across his past six starts, but he's also gone 1-4 during that stretch while posting a mediocre 4.81 ERA and 1.31 WHIP.
Jun 10 2025Cease (2-5) allowed three hits and five walks while striking out 11 over seven scoreless innings to earn the win over the Dodgers on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease overcame issuing a season-high five walks to post his first scoreless outing of the season. The 11 strikeouts were also a season high, and it was enough to get him back in the win column for the first time since April 2. The right-hander is now at a 4.28 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 96:29 K:BB through 75.2 innings over 14 starts, five of which have been quality starts. Cease's next outing is projected to be a rematch versus the Dodgers in Los Angeles early next week.
Jun 5 2025Cease (1-5) took the loss Thursday against the Giants, allowing three runs on five hits and three walks across five innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three of the runs charged to Cease came in the third inning. After he allowed two walks and a single to load the bases, Willy Adames drove in a run with a sacrifice fly before Cease surrendered a two-run double to Dominic Smith with two outs. The 29-year-old Cease has now gone 11 starts without a win. His ERA sits at 4.72 with a 1.31 WHIP and 85:24 K:BB across 13 starts (68.2 innings) this season. He's currently scheduled to face the Dodgers at home in his next outing.
May 31 2025Cease (1-4) allowed three runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out six over 4.2 innings, taking the loss Saturday versus the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease has dialed up at least six strikeouts in each of his last five starts, but he is 0-2 despite a 3.60 ERA over 30 innings in that span. This was the fifth time he's fallen short of completing five innings this year, and he threw 59 of 95 pitches for strikes. Cease is at a 4.66 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 78:21 K:BB across 63.2 innings over 12 starts this season. His next start is projected to be in San Francisco.
May 25 2025Cease did not factor into the decision in Sunday's 5-3 win at Atlanta, allowing three runs on six hits and one walk over five innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease, a Georgia native, racked up 19 whiffs in this 88-pitch outing. With this performance, the San Diego right-hander struck out six or more batters for the fourth consecutive start. Over that span, he's pitched to a 3.20 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and 33:5 K:BB across 25.1 innings. Through 59 total innings, Cease now sports a 4.58 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 72:20 K:BB. He is currently scheduled to make his next start next weekend against the Pirates, who are dead last in runs scored.
May 20 2025Cease (1-3) took the loss Tuesday against the Blue Jays, allowing three runs on three hits and one walk in seven innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Cease's three runs allowed were the most in his last eight starts, he established a season high with seven innings. The hard-throwing right-hander has now fanned at least six in six of his last seven outings, posting a 3.20 ERA and 46:13 K:BB over 39.1 innings in that span. Two of Cease's hits surrendered went for home runs Tuesday, which represented his season worst in homers allowed, so he'll be looking to keep the ball in the yard in his next scheduled appearance against Atlanta.
May 13 2025Cease allowed two runs on five hits and a walk while striking out 10 over 6.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Angels on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease pitched well, but he was charged with a second run after leaving the game when Jeremiah Estrada couldn't keep the Angels at bay in the seventh inning. This was the second start in a row where Cease has set a season high in strikeouts, and he also pitched into the seventh inning for the third time this season. He's at a 4.60 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 58:18 K:BB across 47 innings through nine starts. A nine-run dud against the Athletics on April 8 continues to skew his overall numbers -- he's yet to allow more than three runs in any other start. He's projected to make his next start on the road at Toronto.
May 11 2025The Padres list Cease (forearm) as their probable starting pitcher for Tuesday's game against the Angels at Petco Park. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was cruising along in his most recent start Wednesday against the Yankees before being pulled midway through the seventh inning due to what he called "a freak cramp" in his right forearm, per MLB.com. Subsequent medical testing revealed nothing concerning, and after Cease was able to play catch Friday without incident, he doesn't look like he'll be facing any restrictions when he returns to the hill Tuesday on five days' rest. Since surrendering a season-high nine runs in a loss to the Athletics on April 8, Cease has gone winless in his ensuing five starts but has pitched effectively, turning in a 3.16 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 30:11 K:BB across 25.2 innings over that stretch.
May 7 2025Cease exited his start Wednesday against the Yankees early due to cramping in his right forearm, AJ Cassavell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease said after the game that he had been lobbying to stay in, but the Padres pulled him out of an abundance of caution. The 29-year-old righty added that he passed all the postgame tests administered by the team's training staff and should be good to go for his next start, which lines up for a meeting against the Angels at home.
May 3 2025Cease didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 9-4 victory over the Pirates after giving up two runs on three hits and three walks while striking out three batters in four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease needed 91 pitches to get through four innings Friday, marking the fourth time in seven starts that he hasn't been able to complete a full five innings. His performance was enough to bring his ERA down slightly from 5.75 to 5.61, though he remains stuck in a slump to begin the 2025 campaign. There's a good chance his slump extends into his next start as well, as he's due to take the mound in the Bronx on Wednesday and face a Yankees lineup that boasts an .826 OPS on the season.
Apr 21 2025Cease allowed two runs on six hits and a walk while striking out six in five innings Sunday against the Astros. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease held the Astros scoreless through four innings while escaping run-scoring threats in both the third and fourth. He was unable to do the same in the fifth, however, as the Astros opened up with a double and two singles and plated a second run on a sacrifice. Cease was able to complete the outing without allowing a single barrel and has only allowed two homers through five starts thus far. He lines up for a home start versus the Rays over the weekend.
Apr 14 2025Cease allowed three runs (two earned) on seven hits and one walk while striking out six batters over 5.2 innings in a no-decision against the Cubs on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease tossed three scoreless frames before serving up three runs -- including two on a homer by Michael Busch -- in the fourth. The right-handed hurler departed with two outs in the sixth facing a two-run deficit, but the Padres rallied to pull out the win. Though San Diego is off to a blazing hot 14-3 beginning of the campaign, Cease has yet to fully find his groove, as he's recorded a 6.64 ERA and 1.52 WHIP through 20.1 innings. On a more positive note, he's given up three or fewer runs in three of his four starts, and his overall poor numbers so far are mostly the result of a nine-run, four-inning start against the Athletics on April 8.
Apr 9 2025Cease (1-1) took the loss Tuesday, surrendering nine runs on nine hits and three walks over four innings as the Padres were downed 10-4 by the A's. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The nine runs represented a career-worst performance for Cease, with six of them coming in the first inning as the A's sent 10 men to the plate. The right-hander has failed to last five innings in two of his first three starts this season, leaving him saddled with a 7.98 ERA through 14.2 frames despite an 18:6 K:BB. Cease will try to chip away at his ratios in his next outing, which is scheduled to come at home early next week against the Cubs.
Apr 2 2025Cease (1-0) earned the win Wednesday against Cleveland, surrendering one earned run on four hits and a walk while striking out seven batters across 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease took a shutout into the seventh inning but was pulled after a Lane Thomas groundout plated a run for the Guardians. Cease's dominant showing, combined with a four-run third inning from the Padres' offense, allowed the 29-year-old righty to take home his first win of the new season fairly comfortably. He'll look to stay hot next week when he faces the Athletics on the road.
Mar 29 2025Cease didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 4-3 win over Atlanta, giving up three runs on four hits and two walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander exited after 91 pitches (63 strikes) and dominated at times, striking out six of seven batters between a first-inning double by Austin Riley and a third-inning single by former teammate Jurickson Profar. Cease lost focus after that, however, walking the next two batters in the third and running up his pitch count. It was overall a promising beginning to the campaign for the NL Cy Young candidate despite the lack of length, and Cease lines up to face the Guardians at home in his next start.
Mar 22 2025Cease pitched 5.2 scoreless innings in a Cactus League game against Cincinnati on Saturday, allowing two hits and striking out nine batters without issuing any walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was dominant in the outing, as he induced 18 whiffs on 74 pitches and topped out at 99 mph on the radar gun. The veteran righty finished his spring in superb form, tossing 10 scoreless frames and striking out 17 batters over his final two starts. Michael King has been named the Opening Day starter for San Diego, so Cease will pitch in the team's second contest of the regular season, which will take place Friday, March 28 at home against Atlanta.
Mar 16 2025Cease pitched 4.1 scoreless innings in a Cactus League start against the Angels on Sunday, allowing three hits and issuing three walks while striking out eight batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease looked great in his fourth start this spring, and he was able to push his pitch count to 78. The right-hander has had an up-and-down spring, but he's been fine overall with a 4.61 ERA and 17:6 K:BB over 13.2 frames. The Padres are expected to name their Opening Day starter Monday, per Sammy Levitt of 97.3 The Fan, and it would be a mild surprise if Cease's name isn't called for the assignment.
Mar 11 2025Cease completed 3.2 innings against the White Sox in a Cactus League game Tuesday, allowing four runs on four hits and one walk while striking out four batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his third start this spring, Cease retired the side in order in three of the four frames in which he pitched. However, the right-hander's line was marred by a poor second inning during which Chicago racked up four hits -- including two doubles -- and a walk to push four runs across the plate. Cease was lifted with two outs in the frame, but under spring-training rules he was allowed to return to the game in the following inning. Cease worked up to 64 pitches in the start, and he appears to be progressing well toward the regular season.
Mar 2 2025Cease allowed one run on two hits and one walk while striking out two batters over 2.2 innings in a Cactus League start against Cincinnati on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease tossed 43 pitches -- 32 of which were four-seam fastballs and sliders -- in his first appearance this spring. The veteran righty gave up a solo home run to Christian Encarnacion-Strand in the second frame but otherwise kept the Reds from crossing the plate. The Padres have not yet announced their Opening Day starter, but Cease is probably the leading candidate after posting a 3.47 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 224:65 K:BB in 189.1 regular-season innings last year.
Feb 27 2025Padres manager Mike Shildt said Cease will make his first Cactus League start Friday versus the Mariners, AJ Cassavell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Through their first seven Cactus League games, the Padres haven't used any of their presumed four locks for the season-opening rotation, but that streak will end Friday when Cease takes the mound. The right-hander is likely the leading candidate to get the Opening Day nod for the Padres after he submitted a 3.47 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 224:65 K:BB in 189.1 regular-season innings during his inaugural campaign in San Diego in 2024. Though Cease's name has popped up in trade rumors this offseason amid an ownership shakeup in San Diego, a move elsewhere doesn't appear imminent and may not be revisited until closer to the trade deadline.
Jan 9 2025Cease agreed to a one-year, $13.75 million contract with the Padres on Thursday, avoiding arbitration, Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease will receive a raise of almost $6 million in his final year of arbitration eligibility. The 29-year-old posted a 3.47 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 224:65 K:BB over 189.1 innings during the regular season and is now entering a contract year.
Oct 8 2024Cease will start Wednesday in Game 4 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had a hard time keeping the Dodgers' bats quiet during a loss in Game 1 on Saturday, giving up five earned runs on six hits and two walks over just 3.1 innings. The 28-year-old righty had better luck against Los Angeles during the regular season, turning in a 3.37 ERA across 10.2 frames, so a bounce-back performance Wednesday isn't out of the question.
Oct 7 2024Padres manager Mike Shildt on Monday didn't dismiss the possibility of Cease starting Wednesday in Game 4 of the NLDS versus the Dodgers on short rest, AJ Cassavell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Martin Perez was added to the roster as an injury replacement for Joe Musgrove (elbow) and would seem to be the other logical option for a Game 4 start. Whether the Padres win Game 3 could factor into Shildt's decision. If the Padres do opt for Cease on three days' rest in Game 4, they could turn back to Yu Darvish on normal rest for a potential Game 5.
Oct 3 2024Cease will start Saturday in Game 1 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, Jeff Sanders of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After not being needed in the two-game sweep of Atlanta in the wild-card round, Cease was an easy call to take the ball in the NLDS opener. The righty collected a 3.47 ERA and 224:65 K:BB across 189.1 innings covering 33 starts this season for the Padres. Cease will be opposed by Jack Flaherty.
Sep 26 2024Cease did not factor into the decision in a loss to the Dodgers on Wednesday, allowing three runs on five hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease got off to a bit of a rocky start, issuing a walk to Shohei Ohtani to lead off the bottom of the first before then allowing the slugger to reach second on a wild pitch. The right-hander saw one run come home in the frame and was later tagged for another two runs in the fourth after allowing four-consecutive batters to reach. Cease did generate 20 whiffs in the contest, but that led to only four strikeouts over his five innings of work. It marked the fourth time in his last six starts that he failed to strike out at least five batters and the fifth time over that stretch in which he issued multiple walks. On a positive note, he still carries a 2.97 ERA in September and hasn't allowed a home run in three straight outings.
Sep 18 2024Cease (14-11) picked up the win Wednesday against the Astros, allowing two hits and no walks with five strikeouts across 8.1 scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease couldn't go the distance Wednesday, falling two outs short of a complete game shutout and being pulled after 103 pitches. Still, it was a masterful performance from the 28-year-old, especially considering he had allowed three or more runs in three of his previous four starts. Through 184.1 innings, Cease has a 3.42 ERA and a 1.05 WHIP. His 220 strikeouts rank second in baseball. He's tentatively scheduled for a road start against the Dodgers next week.
Sep 13 2024Cease (13-11) allowed four hits and two walks while striking out 10 over six shutout innings to earn the win Friday over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had allowed at least three runs in each of his last six starts before turning in this excellent performance. This was his fifth start of the year with double-digit strikeouts. Cease is now at a 3.58 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 215:62 K:BB through 176 innings over 31 starts this year. His next start is lined up to be at home versus the Astros.
Sep 8 2024Cease (12-11) took the loss against the Giants on Saturday, allowing four runs on six hits and two walks over six innings while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease allowed at least one hit in each of his first four innings on the mound, including a three-run shot off the bat of Grant McCray in the top of the second as the Giants took an early lead. The right-hander also failed to retire each of the first three batters he faced in the fourth, leading to a fourth run coming home for San Francisco. Cease did still manage to make it through six innings for only the second time in his last eight starts (with one of those eight starts being shortened due to a rain delay), though he's now surrendered multiple free passes in three straight. It also marked his third loss in his last four decisions (spanning six starts).
Sep 1 2024Cease did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing three runs on two hits and three walks over five innings against the Rays. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease entered the sixth with a three-run lead, having managed to hold the Rays off the board through five while allowing only two batters to reach base. However, Cease removed from the game after loading the bases while not recording an out in the sixth, on the hook for all three runners that eventually came around to score. It was the third time over his last four starts that Cease has walked at least three batters, though he did allow just five batters to reach base over five-plus innings after having allowed 37 baserunners during his previous 21.1 innings. He's next scheduled to take the hill in a home matchup against the Giants.
Aug 28 2024Cease came away with a no-decision in Tuesday's 7-5 win over the Cardinals, giving up four runs on seven hits and four walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out four and threw three wild pitches. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander got only 52 of his 96 pitches in the strike zone as he issued three or more free passes for the fourth time in his last seven starts. Over that stretch, Cease has maintained a 2.92 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 38:18 K:BB in 37 innings, though he hasn't produced a single double-digit strikeout performance in that span. He'll look to get back in the win column in his next outing, which lines up to come on the road this weekend in Tampa Bay.
Aug 23 2024Cease (12-10) took the loss against the Mets on Thursday, allowing three runs (two earned) on nine hits and one walk over 6.1 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Mets got to Cease early, tagging the right-hander for a run in the first and two more in the fourth, though one of those would not be charged to him after coming across on a passed ball. He would still manage to come away with his first quality start since July 25 despite taking his 10th loss, generating 14 whiffs in the process. Cease has gone at least five innings in each of his last three outings, though he's allowed multiple runs on each occasion. He now carries a 3.50 ERA in August to go along with a 19:8 K:BB.
Aug 18 2024Cease (12-9) picked up the win over the Rockies on Saturday, allowing three runs on three hits and five walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease started off strong, striking out five of the first nine batters he faced while keeping the Rockies off the scoreboard through the first five innings. The right-hander then began to stumble in the sixth, allowing three consecutive batters to reach before eventually surrendering three runs in the frame. He was relieved by Adrian Morejon with two outs, marking the third consecutive start in which Cease has been unable to get through six innings (excluding his rain-delayed start on Aug 6). The five walks on the night also matched his season high and he's now issued multiple free passes in four consecutive outings in which he's pitched outside of the first inning. Despite that, Cease has now won five of his last six decisions (spanning seven starts).
Aug 11 2024Cease (11-9) took the loss Sunday against Miami, allowing five runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks across five innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease got off to a rocky start, yielding four singles as part of a two-run first inning, with both runs being earned. The Padres defense didn't do him any favors in the second frame, with errors by Ha-Seong Kim and Luis Arraez extending the inning for an eventual two-run homer by Jake Burger. San Diego would eventually settle in defensively and Cease didn't allow another run to score, but the damage was already done. Sunday's loss was Cease's first since July 7 and it broke a streak of five consecutive appearances allowing no more than one run. In 25 outings, Cease has logged a 3.41 ERA and a league-leading 181 strikeouts. He's scheduled to face the Rockies at Coors field next weekend.
Aug 7 2024Cease didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against the Pirates, striking out two and allowing one hit in a scoreless inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease made quick work of the Pirates in the first inning, working around a Rowdy Tellez two-out double. However, the game would then be delayed for nearly three hours before the bottom of the second, forcing San Diego to go to the bullpen. Cease has been excellent of late, allowing just one earned run in his last 28.2 innings. Overall, he's 11-8 with a 3.40 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 176:43 K:BB in 24 starts this year. Cease currently lines up for a road matchup with the Marlins this weekend, though he could appear sooner, as the right-hander should be well rested after throwing just 14 pitches Tuesday.
Jul 31 2024Cease (11-8) allowed a run on three hits and three walks while striking out six over 5.2 innings to earn the win over the Dodgers on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease's chance at consecutive no-hitters didn't get far, as he allowed a single to Jason Heyward in the second inning. The Dodgers didn't get much more out of him aside from Gavin Lux's RBI double in the third inning, and the Padres gave their ace plenty of run support. Cease has allowed just four runs over his last 34.2 innings, posting a 44:11 K:BB in that span while winning four consecutive starts. For the year, he's at a 3.42 ERA with a 0.99 WHIP and 174:43 K:BB through 136.2 innings over 23 starts. Cease is projected to make his next start at Pittsburgh.
Jul 25 2024Cease (10-8) pitched a no-hitter, striking out nine batters and walking three without giving up a run, to earn the win against the Nationals on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The no-hitter was the first of Cease's career, though he came within one out of accomplishing the feat in September of 2022 before current teammate Luis Arraez broke up the bid. The right-hander needed 114 pitches to finish off the historic effort Thursday, and he was nearly pulled after seven frames before talking manager Mike Shildt into remaining in the contest, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Remarkably, this was Cease's sixth outing of at least six frames and one or zero hits this season, and he's met those marks in each of his past three starts, allowing a combined two hits and no runs while posting a 30:7 K:BB over 22 frames during that span. Thursday's no-hitter was the second in Padres history; the other was tossed by Joe Musgrove in April of 2021.
Jul 20 2024Cease (9-8) allowed one hit and one walk while striking out 10 over seven shutout innings to earn the win Saturday over the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In three of his last five starts, Cease has delivered one-hit ball, though this was arguably his most dominant outing of the season. It was also his fourth start of the year with double-digit strikeouts. Cease is now at a 3.76 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 159:37 K:BB through 122 innings over 21 starts. He's projected for a road start versus Washington next week, though that could become a more challenging assignment at Baltimore if the Padres opt to call up a fifth starter for their first time through the rotation after the All-Star break.
Jul 14 2024Cease (8-8) picked up the win Saturday, allowing only one hit and three walks over six scoreless innings in a 4-0 victory over Atlanta. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Padres got on the board with a run in the second inning, and it's all the support Cease and the bullpen would need. The right-hander racked up double-digit Ks for the third time this season en route to his 11th quality start, and Cease produced an impressive 27 swinging strikes among his 106 pitches. He'll head into the All-Star break with a 3.99 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 149:36 K:BB through 115 innings, putting him just one strikeout behind former teammate Garrett Crochet for the major-league lead.
Jul 8 2024Cease (7-8) took the loss Sunday against the Diamondbacks, allowing three runs on five hits and a walk while striking out eight over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three runs scored against Cease came from the long ball. Corbin Carroll opened up the game with a solo home run and then Eugenio Suarez put the Diamondbacks ahead with a two-run blast in the seventh. Cease has now given up four homers over his last two starts and has given up 14 in 14 starts dating back to April 27. He has a 5.11 ERA over that span, though that also comes with an elite 11.7 K/9. For the year, the 28-year-old owns a 4.21 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 128:33 K:BB in 109 innings. He lines up to face Atlanta at home this weekend.
Jul 3 2024Cease (7-7) took the loss Tuesday, coughing up six runs on eight hits and two walks over 3.2 innings as the Padres fell 7-0 to the Rangers. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander got no help from his offense, but Cease created his own problems by serving up six extra-base hits, including a pair of homers by Nathaniel Lowe. Cease has been tagged for four runs or more in three of his last four starts, walking multiple batters each time. He'll take a 4.24 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 130:32 K:BB through 102 innings into his next outing, which lines up to come at home this weekend against the Diamondbacks.
Jun 26 2024Cease (7-6) earned the win over Washington on Wednesday, pitching seven scoreless innings during which he allowed one hit and issued two walks while striking out nine batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only hit Cease surrendered during his seven frames was a two-out single by Nick Senzel in the fifth inning. Remarkably, this was the San Diego right-hander's third outing this season during which he gave up exactly one hit in seven frames, and he unsurprisingly has picked up a victory in all three of those starts. Cease had been struggling coming into Wednesday, giving up 11 runs over his previous two starts covering 8.1 innings during his worst two-game stretch of the campaign. He's had a few clunkers among his 17 appearances this season but has solid numbers overall with a 3.84 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 125:30 K:BB across 98.1 frames.
Jun 21 2024Cease allowed four runs on six hits and two walks while striking out 10 over 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Brewers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease has failed to complete five innings in three of his last seven starts. He labored in this one, throwing 68 of 106 pitches for strikes while posting double-digit strikeouts for the second time this year. The right-hander is at a 4.14 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 116:28 K:BB over 91.1 innings through 16 starts. He's projected to make his next start at home versus the Nationals.
Jun 16 2024Cease (6-6) took the loss as he went 3.2 innings, giving up seven runs on seven hits and three walks Sunday versus the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: From the jump, Cease just didn't have his best stuff Sunday, as he allowed the first four hitters to score after serving up homers to Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso. The 28-year-old gave up a season-high seven runs in what was his shortest outing of the campaign. After pitching to a 2.19 ERA over his first eight starts, the righty has run into a rough patch, giving up at least three runs in six of his last seven starts and seeing his ERA climb to 3.95 in the process.
Jun 10 2024Cease (6-5) earned the win over Oakland on Monday, allowing one run on eight hits and one walk while striking out eight batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease surrendered a solo homer to Tyler Soderstrom in the second inning, but that was the only run the A's managed to score against him. The right-handed hurler racked up 15 whiffs among his 104 pitches and gave up fewer than three runs for the first time since May 8. Cease entered Monday with a 5.86 ERA over his previous five starts, and he went 0-3 during that span. However, he still holds a solid 3.36 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 101:23 K:BB over 83 innings on the season.
Jun 5 2024Cease (5-5) allowed three runs on four hits and a walk while striking out six over six innings to take the loss Wednesday versus the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease took his third loss in five outings. He was done in by the long ball again, as Nolan Schanuel took him deep to lead off the bottom of the first inning and Zach Neto added a two-run blast in the second. Cease has surrendered six homers during his five-start winless stretch. The right-hander is now at a 3.51 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 93:22 K:BB over 77 innings across 13 starts this season. He's not having a bad year by any means -- his 2.6 BB/9 is the best of his career. Cease will look to snap his skid in his next start, tentatively projected to be at home versus the Athletics.
May 31 2024Cease did not factor into the decision in Friday's 11-8 win over the Royals, allowing three runs on five hits and one walk over 5.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite generating 16 whiffs out of his 98 total pitches, Cease managed to strike out only five, tying a season-low also reached on May 20 against Atlanta and April 27 against Philadelphia. The Padres ace was cruising through five innings, allowing just two baserunners; however, he unraveled in a 25-pitch sixth inning, allowing four baserunners and departing with just one out. Cease's ERA stands at 3.42 with 87:21 K:BB in 71 innings this season. He is tentatively slated to face the Angels on the road in his next start.
May 26 2024Cease (5-4) was tagged with the loss Saturday, allowing four runs on eight hits over 6.2 innings against the Yankees. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease got himself into trouble right out of the gate after surrendering a leadoff single to Anthony Volpe to open the contest, followed by a two-run shot off the bat of Aaron Judge two batters later. The right-hander would then go on to strike out five of the next seven batters he faced before giving up another two runs in the fourth. Cease has now allowed three or more runs in three consecutive starts, going 0-2 over that stretch. On a positive note, he's recorded at least eight strikeouts in four of his last five outings and has posted a dynamite 42:6 K:BB in May. His 82 strikeouts on the campaign leave him sitting behind only Tyler Glasnow (87) for the league lead.
May 20 2024Cease allowed five runs on nine hits and three walks while striking out five batters over four innings in a no-decision against Atlanta in the first game of Monday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Cease's worst outing as a Padre, as he pitched a season-low four frames and gave up a season-high nine hits. He had previously given up five earned runs in an outing, but that came over six frames against Philadelphia. Cease was uncharacteristically hurt by the long ball Monday -- after giving up just three homers across his first nine starts, he yielded a pair of home runs (though both were solo shots) versus Atlanta. It's a testament to Cease's effectiveness overall this season that he still holds a 3.05 ERA and 0.93 WHIP despite Monday's dud.
May 15 2024Cease (5-3) took the loss Tuesday against the Rockies, allowing three runs on five hits and a walk while striking out eight over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease blanked the Rockies through three before Ryan McMahon took him deep to lead off the fourth. He then ran into some trouble in the sixth, allowing an additional run before being pulled with two outs in the inning and being charged with a third run before the frame concluded. It was just the second time this year Cease has failed to complete six innings and his first since his season debut. The strikeouts continue to pile up, as he's punched out at least eight in four of his last five starts and is second in the majors with 68 over 55 innings. He now owns a 2.45 ERA and 0.78 WHIP and lines up for a tough test on the road against Atlanta next week.
May 8 2024Cease (5-2) picked up the win Wednesday against the Cubs, allowing one hit and two walks over seven scoreless innings. He struck out 12. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease fell one K shy of his career high in strikeouts and only allowed four total baserunners -- an infield single, two walks and a hit-by-pitch -- en route to his fifth win of his last six starts. He's been making a case for the AL Cy Young in his first season with the Padres, earning a 2.19 ERA and a 0.75 WHIP with 60 strikeouts over 49.1 innings pitched. Cease will look to add to his already impressive 2024 resume in a projected home start Tuesday against the Rockies.
May 3 2024Cease (4-2) earned the win Friday against the Diamondbacks, allowing one run, three hits and no walks over 6.2 innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease continued his brilliant start to the season Friday night, generating 18 whiffs en route to eight strikeouts. The erstwhile White Sox pitcher appears to have re-found his 2022 form, pitching to the tune of a 2.55 ERA, 0.80 WHIP and 48:14 K:BB over 42.1 innings. Cease looks to keep it rolling in his next start, scheduled against the Cubs in Chicago.
Apr 27 2024Cease (3-2) took the loss against Philadelphia on Saturday, allowing five runs on six hits and three walks while striking out five batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Prior to Saturday, Cease hadn't given up more than two earned runs in any of his five starts and had pitched to a 1.82 ERA. That number ballooned to 2.78 after the outing against Philadelphia, with Alec Bohm accounting for four RBI against the right-hander. Despite the hiccup, Cease has been the Padres' most effective starter this season, and he'll look to bounce back into form in his next appearance, which projects to come on the road in Arizona.
Apr 22 2024Cease (3-1) earned the win over Colorado on Monday, allowing one run on one hit and no walks while striking out eight batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease dominated the Rockies' lineup, yielding just one hit -- a fourth-inning Charlie Blackmon leadoff double that Colorado converted into its only run. The veteran hurler has notched a win in each of his past three starts, giving up just two earned runs and five hits while striking out 22 batters over 19 frames during that stretch. Cease's lack of free passes Monday was also a positive development after he had issued multiple walks in each of his first four starts of the campaign, including five in his previous outing. Cease's season ERA now sits at a sterling 1.82, which is tied for 10th in MLB among qualified starters.
Apr 16 2024Cease (2-1) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing one run on two hits and five walks across six innings against the Brewers. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease got a little wild Tuesday and walked a handful of batters, but he put up his fourth straight start with two or fewer earned runs. The right-hander has also punched out seven in three consecutive appearances. Milwaukee's lone run against Cease came in the first frame when Jake Bauers plated Willy Adames on a double. Cease has been an excellent addition to the Padres rotation thus far, boasting a 1.99 ERA and a 0.93 WHIP across 22.2 innings. He's tentatively lined up for a start at Coors Field on Monday.
Apr 11 2024Cease (1-1) pitched six innings in a win over the Cubs on Wednesday, allowing two unearned runs on two hits and two walks while striking out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was in control from the start Wednesday, striking out the first two batters he faced and allowing just two hits and a walk over the first four innings. Unfortunately, one of those hits went for a home run to score two runs for Chicago following a fielding error from Ha-Seong Kim, though those would be the only runs to come across for the Cubs in the contest. The right-hander allowed only two hits on the day and has now registered a 14:4 K:BB through two starts this month, going six innings in each of those outings. The home run in Wednesday's game was also the first he's allowed in three starts to open the campaign.
Apr 5 2024Cease came away with a no-decision in Friday's 3-2 loss to the Giants, allowing two runs on four hits and two walks over six innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander uncorked two wild pitches and threw 64 of 102 pitches for strikes before exiting the mound, but Cease also generated 30 called or swinging strikes in his first quality start as a Padre. He's posted a 3.38 ERA and 13:4 K:BB through his first 10.2 innings this season, and Cease lines up to make his next start at home next week against the Cubs.
Mar 30 2024Cease (0-1) took the loss in his Padres debut Saturday, allowing three runs (two earned) on two hits and two walks over 4.2 frames. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease struck out three of the first four batters he faced but ran into trouble in the second with a walk and a couple doubles. He settled in after that but couldn't quite get through five as the Giants plated an unearned run. Cease picked up 12 whiffs on 85 pitches, with eight of them coming on his slider. The right-hander's fantasy outlook received a nice boost with a trade to the Padres, but his name winds up in the loss column in his debut.
Mar 13 2024The White Sox traded Cease to the Padres on Wednesday in exchange for Drew Thorpe, Jairo Iriarte, Steven Wilson and Samuel Zavala, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After recent pushes from the Rangers and Yankees to acquire Cease, the right-hander will ultimately end up in San Diego, giving a much-needed boost to a Padres rotation that lost Blake Snell, Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo during the offseason. Following his brilliant 2022 campaign, Cease took a big step back in 2023 with a 4.58 ERA and 1.42 WHIP across 33 starts, though he still was able to rack up 214 strikeouts in 177 innings. Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove have already been penciled in as the Padres' starters for their season-opening series versus the Dodgers in South Korea next week, but Cease could make his Friars debut when the team return to North America for its first domestic series with the Giants from March 28 through 31.
Mar 12 2024The Rangers and White Sox have engaged in trade discussions regarding Cease, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Jacob deGrom, Tyler Mahle and Max Scherzer all set to miss the first portion of the season, trading for Cease would go a long way in bolstering the Rangers' rotation depth to start the new campaign. The White Sox have reportedly sent numerous scouts to Rangers camp over the past week, indicating that trade discussions may be getting more serious, but Chicago may still opt to send Cease to the Yankees, who have checked in on his availability.
Mar 7 2024Cease allowed one earned run on two hits while striking out five and walking none across three innings in Thursday's Cactus League game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease threw 21 pitches in his second spring appearance and was regularly hitting 96 mph with his fastball, per Kyle Williams of the Chicago Sun-Times. The only run against him came on a solo home run, but he was otherwise sharp in the outing. Cease is set to start on Opening Day.
Jan 25 2024Cease was named the White Sox's Opening Day starter on Thursday, Vinnie Duber of AllCHGO.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease will draw his second consecutive Opening Day assignment, this time taking on the Tigers on March 28. He has frequently been named in trade rumors this offseason, though the team is apparently planning for him to remain on the roster given this announcement. Cease had a disappointing 2023 season, posting a 4.58 ERA and 1.42 WHIP to go along with a 214:79 K:BB across 177 innings.
Jan 11 2024Cease signed a one-year, $8 million contract with the White Sox on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease followed up his impressive 2022 campaign with a disappointing 2023, posting a 4.58 ERA and 1.42 WHIP alongside a 214:79 K:BB through 177 innings. Despite his decline, Cease remains a likely candidate to be traded for prospects prior to or during the season as the White Sox continue their rebuild.
Sep 29 2023Cease (7-9) took the loss Friday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks over five innings against the Padres. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was highly effective but far from efficient in needing 104 pitches to complete five frames. The only run he allowed came in the fifth when Matthew Batten struck out but advanced to second on a wild pitch, moved to third following another wild pitch, then was driven in by a Xander Bogaerts sac fly. While his season total of 214 strikeouts was elite, the 27-year-old struggled to a 4.58 ERA and 1.42 WHIP in 177 innings, though he finished strong with a 1.93 ERA, 1.01 WHIP and 31 strikeouts across 23.1 innings over his final four starts.
Sep 23 2023Cease did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing six hits over seven scoreless innings against the Red Sox. He struck out 11 without issuing any free passes. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was masterful during Saturday's rain-soaked contest in Boston, but he didn't receive any run support and had to settle for an unfortunate no-decision. The 27-year-old avoided issuing any walks for the first time in 13 second-half starts and notched his first double-digit strikeout effort since June 26. Despite a disappointing campaign for last year's AL Cy Young runner-up, Cease has now amassed 200-plus strikeouts for the third consecutive season, joining the ranks of Chris Sale (2013-2016) and Ed Walsh (1910-1912) as the only White Sox pitchers to achieve the feat. Cease is tentatively projected to face the Padres at home in the club's final regular-season series next week.
Sep 17 2023Cease (7-8) took the loss Sunday, allowing three runs on four hits and three walks over six innings against the Twins. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The positive is that Cease contributed his first quality start in over a month. Cease cruised through four, but a lack of run support combined with a 34-pitch fifth inning that was culminated by an Edouard Julien three-run homer sealed Cease's fate and paved the way for his eighth loss. Cease has now allowed 38 hits and 16 walks over his last six starts with an ERA of 7.71 in 31.2 innings. He's currently penciled in to take the mound next weekend in Boston.
Sep 12 2023Cease (7-7) earned the win Tuesday, allowing one run on four hits and a walk over 5.1 innings against Kansas City. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a step in the right direction for Cease, who'd struggled to a 9.30 ERA in his prior four starts (20.1 innings). While efficiency remains an issue for Cease (he needed 102 pitches to get through 5.1 innings Tuesday), his 10.81 K/9 ranks sixth-best in the league. Cease's ERA now sits at 4.87 with a 1.46 WHIP and 191:74 K:BB through 30 starts (159 innings) this season. He'll look to build on Tuesday's outing in his next start, currently scheduled for this weekend against the Twins.
Sep 11 2023Cease will not make his scheduled start Monday against the Royals with the contest being postponed due to rain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Cease will not take the mound Monday, he will get the ball in the first game of the doubleheader that will be played Tuesday, and if he remains on regular rest he will still make two starts before the week comes to a close.
Sep 5 2023Cease did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing five runs (four earned) on eight hits and two walks over 5.1 innings against Kansas City. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After giving up 13 earned runs in his last two starts (10.1 innings), Cease gave up four more runs Tuesday and allowed at least six hits for a fourth consecutive outing. Cease also couldn't keep the ball in the stadium Tuesday, serving up solo home runs to Nelson Velazquez, Bobby Massey and MJ Melendez before getting pulled mid-way through the sixth frame. If fantasy managers are looking for a positive takeaway from Cease's performance, it would be that he fanned seven batters and increased his streak of starts with at least six K's to six appearances.
Aug 31 2023Cease (6-7) earned the win Wednesday, allowing five runs on six hits and three walks over six innings against the Orioles. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease got off to a horrendous start, allowing four runs on four hits in the first inning while also hitting Cedric Mullins with a pitch. He then surrendered a solo shot to Anthony Santander to open the third before hurling three scoreless frames to finish the day. The right-hander has now allowed at least five runs in back-to-back starts and has given up at least four runs in three straight. Furthermore, he's walked multiple batters in each of his last nine starts and holds an unflattering 33:22 K:BB in August.
Aug 26 2023Cease (5-7) took the loss Friday as the White Sox were trounced 12-4 by the A's, surrendering nine runs (eight earned) on nine hits and five walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a scoreless first inning, Oakland jumped on Cease for five runs in the second, and Chicago never recovered. The right-hander tossed only 52 of 96 pitches for strikes as he continues to fall apart in August -- Cease has been tagged for at least five earned runs in three of five starts this month, stumbling to an 8.61 ERA, 2.13 WHIP and 26:19 K:BB through 23 innings. He'll try to turn things around in his next outing, likely to come next week in Baltimore.
Aug 20 2023Cease allowed five runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out six over 4.2 innings, taking a no-decision versus the Rockies on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was in line for the loss before the White Sox rallied ahead in the eighth inning. He's failed to complete five innings twice over four starts in August, allowing 14 runs across 18.2 innings this month. For the season, Cease is at a 4.50 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 163:63 K:BB over 138 innings through 26 starts. He's projected to make his next appearance at home versus the Athletics.
Aug 14 2023Cease (5-6) suffered a loss Sunday against the Brewers after allowing two runs on five hits and two walks while striking out seven in seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease notched his highest strikeout total since July 22 and reached seven innings for the first time all year. The Brewers manufactured a run on a sacrifice fly in the second after kicking off the inning with back-to-back singles and then tacked on another in the fifth while the White Sox were blanked until the ninth. Cease registered an elite 39 percent CSW rate in the outing but still managed to come out on the losing end for a third time in his last four tries. He now owns a 4.32 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 157:61 K:BB in 133.1 innings and lines up for a start in Coors Field next weekend.
Aug 7 2023Cease (5-5) tossed 5.1 scoreless innings in a win over the Yankees on Monday, allowing one hit and seven walks while striking out six batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not often that a hurler issues seven walks and keeps the opponent scoreless -- in fact, Cease is the first White Sox pitcher to do it since Dan Wright in 2001, per Christopher Kamka of NBC Sports Chicago. Cease's success was centered on holding New York to just one hit, which didn't come until there were two outs in the top of the sixth inning. That DJ LeMahieu single resulted in the veteran hurler getting the hook after 104 pitches (only 58 of which were strikes), but Brett Honeywell managed to work out of a bases-loaded jam to keep Cease's scoreless outing intact. It's unlikely that Cease will pair this level of wildness with success often, but his final stat line was much more palatable than the seven-run, 1.2 inning shelling he took against Texas his last time out.
Aug 2 2023Cease (4-5) took the loss against Texas on Wednesday, allowing seven runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out one batter over 1.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: By almost every account, this was Cease's worst outing of the season. He logged his shortest start to date -- previously, he had completed at least four innings in each of his 22 appearances -- and tied a season-worst mark with the seven runs he allowed. Cease also recorded his lowest strikeout total of the season with the single punchout he was able to muster. The right-hander served up a two-run homer to Corey Seager in the first inning, but his demise was the second, when he allowed five runs on three singles, a double and three walks. The poor outing pushed Cease's season ERA to 4.61, which is on pace to be his worst mark since his rookie 2019 campaign.
Jul 27 2023Cease (4-4) took the loss Thursday, allowing four runs on nine hits and two walks over 5.2 innings against Cleveland. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease's final line certainly could've been uglier as he surrendered nine hits, including four for extra bases. Still, it was a tough outing for the 27-year-old right-hander after he allowed just two runs over his previous two starts (11 innings). Cease now sports a 4.15 ERA with a 1.34 WHIP and 143:49 K:BB across 22 starts (119.1 innings) this season. He'll look to get back on track in his next outing, currently scheduled for next week against Texas.
Jul 22 2023Cease allowed a run on three hits and two walks while striking out nine over six innings in a no-decision versus the Twins on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease pitched well enough to win, but Keynan Middleton and Gregory Santos couldn't preserve the lead in the seventh inning. This was Cease's first quality start in four July outings -- he's given up 10 runs over 22.1 innings in that span. The right-hander is now at a 4.04 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 138:47 K:BB through 113.2 innings over 21 starts this season. He's projected for a home start versus the Guardians next week.
Jul 16 2023Cease (4-3) earned the win Sunday, allowing a run on three hits and three walks over five innings against Atlanta. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a strong bounce-back performance from Cease against a powerful Atlanta lineup after he allowed five runs on 11 hits to the Cardinals in his last start before the All-Star break. Overall, the 27-year-old right-hander has been solid of late, allowing two runs or fewer in six of his previous eight outings. Cease lowered his ERA to 4.18 with a 1.34 WHIP and 129:45 K:BB across 15 starts (81.1 innings) this season. He's tentatively lined up to face the Twins on the road in his next start.
Jul 8 2023Cease did not factor into the decision Friday against St. Louis, allowing five runs on 11 hits over six innings. He struck out eight and did not issue a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease coughed up five runs in the first three innings but turned in three shutout frames to end his outing. He tossed 107 pitches and forced 17 whiffs. While his command and control have been shaky at times throughout the season, Cease has posted an impressive 23:3 K:BB over his last three starts. His ERA jumped to 4.30 alongside a 123:42 K:BB across 102.2 frames.
Jul 1 2023Cease allowed three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out five batters over 5.1 innings in a no-decision against the White Sox on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had struck out at least nine batters in three straight games coming into Saturday, but he punched out just five against Oakland. The right-hander entered the sixth inning with a one-run lead, but he was pulled after giving up a one-out triple followed by a double that tied the score. Cease logged his seventh straight no-decision, though he's pitched well with a 3.32 ERA and 55:17 K:BB over 38 innings during that span.
Jun 26 2023Cease did not factor in the decision against the Angels on Monday, allowing one run on five hits and no walks while striking out 10 batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease racked up an impressive 17 swinging strikes en route to his second 10-punchout performance over his past three starts, but Angels starter Reid Detmers matched him in both whiffs and strikeouts, and neither hurler factored in the decision. For Cease, the outing was the culmination of a strong June during which he has allowed two or fewer runs in each of his five starts, compiling a 2.20 ERA and 42:10 K:BB across 28.2 frames over that stretch. That's a vast improvement over the 5.57 ERA and 31:14 K:BB over 32.1 innings he registered in May.
Jun 20 2023Cease did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over six innings against the Rangers. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease turned in another impressive outing Tuesday, marking his fourth straight appearance allowing two or fewer runs. Over that stretch, Cease owns a 2.38 ERA with a 32:10 K:BB and 15 hits allowed across 22.2 innings. Cease's nine strikeouts also moved him into a tie for the ninth most strikeouts in MLB. The White Sox ace is tentatively scheduled to make his next start during a three-game home series against Boston.
Jun 16 2023Cease allowed two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out 10 batters over 5.1 innings in a no-decision against the Dodgers on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For five innings Cease looked every bit the pitcher who finished second in AL Cy Young voting last season, giving up just two hits while punching out nine batters. However, the right-hander was lifted after giving up two singles around another strikeout in the sixth, and both runners came around to score when reliever Reynaldo Lopez surrendered a game-tying grand slam to Chris Taylor. That prevented Cease from getting the win, but he nonetheless continued his nice turnaround in June. Through three starts this month, Cease has posted a 2.16 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 23:8 K:BB over 16.2 frames.
Jun 9 2023Cease yielded one run on four hits and two walks over six frames in Friday's win over Miami. He struck out seven and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease rolled through four shutout frames before coughing up a solo homer in the fifth inning. The 27-year-old has been shaky all season but has allowed just two runs over 11.1 innings in his last two starts. He's given up three or fewer runs in five of his last six starts, posting a 2.94 ERA during that span. Cease is now sporting a 4.38 ERA and an 81:34 K:BB through 74 innings. He's projected to face the Dodgers on the road next week.
Jun 3 2023Cease didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 2-1 extra-inning win over the Tigers, allowing one run on two hits and three walks over 5.1 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander took a shutout into the sixth inning before Zach McKinstry tripled to lead off the frame and scored on a Cease slider that was nowhere near the plate and got away from catcher Yasmani Grandal -- part of a bizarre contest that saw all three runs in the game score on wild pitches. Cease exited after 99 pitches (62 strikes), coming just short of his sixth quality start of the year. He'll take a 4.63 ERA and 74:32 K:BB through 68 innings into his next outing, likely to come at home next weekend against the Marlins.
May 29 2023Cease did not factor into the decision Sunday, allowing four runs on four hits and four walks over four frames during a 6-5 loss against the Tigers in 10 innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease has given up a home run in seven of his past eight appearances and sports a 6.47 ERA and 1.59 WHIP during that stretch. The right-hander started the season strong, allowing just three runs over his first 16.1 innings with 24 strikeouts during that stretch, but he's struggled to find any consistency recently. Cease's eight strikeouts through four innings is encouraging, but he likely needs to make a few more adjustments to get back to where he was last year when he finished second in the AL Cy Young voting.
May 23 2023Cease (3-3) earned the win Tuesday, allowing two runs on five hits and two walks over 6 innings in a 4-2 win over Cleveland. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's Cease's first win since April 10, though he's now logged quality starts in three consecutive outings, allowing five runs in that span (18.1 innings). He's found success recently despite a decline in strikeout rate -- he hasn't recorded more than six punchouts in a start since April 5, sporting a subpar 19 percent K-rate since the beginning of May. Overall, Cease has a 4.60 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 60:25 K:BB over 11 starts (58.2 innings) this season.
May 18 2023Cease (2-3) took the loss Thursday, allowing three runs on five hits and one walk over 6.1 innings against the Guardians. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease didn't get much help Thursday. With the infield drawn in, Tim Anderson misplayed a ground ball that allowed the go-ahead run to score. Then Gregory Santos gave up a single to plate Cleveland's third run charged to Cease. The righty has had a wild month of May, allowing 11 runs in his first two starts, but just three in his last two outings. Cease is still sitting on a bloated 4.78 ERA, as he tries to regain his form that led to a 2.20 ERA last season.
May 15 2023Cease is scheduled to make his next start Thursday versus the Guardians at Guaranteed Rate Field, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was initially slated to start in the White Sox's series opener with the Royals on Friday, but manager Pedro Grifol will instead use Monday's off day to reorder the rotation. Michael Kopech -- who had been in line to start Thursday's series finale with Cleveland -- will be bumped back a day to start Friday.
May 13 2023Cease did not factor in the decision against Houston on Saturday, allowing four hits and two walks while striking out five batters over six scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was in dire need of a strong performance after allowing 20 earned runs over 18 innings across his previous four starts. The right-hander got back on track against the Astros, yielding just four hits -- all singles -- while notching his first scoreless outing of the campaign. Cease wasn't able to end a five-start winless streak because Chicago scored just once while he was in the game; however, this was an enormously positive appearance for him and the White Sox considering his struggles of late. Cease began the campaign pitching well, so his ERA still sits at a non-catastrophic 4.86 despite the recent rough patch.
May 8 2023Cease (2-2) took the loss against Kansas City on Monday, allowing seven runs on nine hits and one walk while striking out six batters over five-plus innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: On paper, this looked like a good bounce-back opportunity for Cease, as KC entered the contest in the bottom third of the league in runs scored. However, the right-hander gave up a season-high seven earned runs, three of which crossed the plate after he departed. The White Sox bullpen can't be entirely blamed for that -- Cease allowed all three batters he faced in the sixth to reach base, handing over a bases-loaded, no-out situation. Cease was exceptional through four starts this season, posting a 2.01 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 29:12 K:BB. He's struggled since then, however, yielding 20 earned runs across 18 innings over his subsequent four starts. Things may not get any easier in his next outing, as he's tentatively lined up for a home matchup against the Astros.
May 3 2023Cease didn't factor in the decision against Minnesota on Wednesday, allowing four runs on five hits and four walks while striking out six batters over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was spotted a three-run lead after the first inning, but he fell behind by allowing four runs between the third and fourth frames. However, Chicago came back to earn the victory and take Cease off the hook for a second straight loss. The right-hander continued to struggle with his control in Wednesday's outing, and he's now issued four or more walks in three of his seven starts this season. Cease has managed a strong 11.0 K/9 through 35.1 innings, but the walks have played a big part in his disappointing 4.58 ERA and 1.44 WHIP.
Apr 28 2023Cease (2-1) took the loss Thursday, allowing seven runs on nine hits and two walks over four innings in a 14-5 loss against the Rays. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had his worst start of the season against the first-place Rays. The right-hander has now lasted just four innings in each of his last two starts. On the bright side, the 27-year-old currently ranks eleventh in the league with 37 strikeouts. The fifth-year veteran is tentatively slated to face the Twins at home in his next appearance.
Apr 5 2023Cease said he was under the weather during his start Wednesday against the Giants, Vinnie Duber of AllCHGO.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease told reporters that he didn't sleep well Tuesday night because of a mild illness and overcompensated with caffeine in the lead up to his afternoon outing on the South Side of Chicago. He issued five walks but tallied eight strikeouts and gave up only one hit -- a solo homer -- en route to a gutty victory versus San Francisco. The 27-year-old should be fully rested by his next scheduled turn in the rotation which lines up for Monday against the Twins.
Mar 30 2023Cease did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing one run on two hits and zero walks over 6.1 innings in a 3-2 win over Houston. He struck out 10. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease fired 62 of 86 pitches for strikes Thursday and allowed just two singles and a hit-by-pitch. The right-hander tied a franchise record by recording 10 Opening Day punchouts, and he racked up 15 swinging strikes against the defending World Series champions. Cease broke out with a career-best campaign that earned him second place in AL Cy Young voting last season, and based on his results Thursday, he could be on a trajectory to solidify his place among MLB's best pitchers in 2023.
Mar 14 2023Cease was reaching 97 mph with his fastball in Tuesday's Cactus League game against the Athletics, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was hit hard in his first spring outing, and his appearance Tuesday also started poorly. He allowed a double, single and walk in the first inning, which allowed two runs to score. However, he ramped up his velocity as compared to his spring debut and also made an adjustment to his slider to improve his command of the pitch in his second inning of work. Cease has had a shaky start to spring training, but he is coming off an excellent 2022 campaign during which he posted a 2.20 ERA and 1.11 WHIP across 184 frames.
Mar 8 2023Cease allowed 11 earned runs on seven hits and four walks across 0.2 innings to take the loss Wednesday in a Cactus League matchup against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease completed two scoreless innings in his Cactus League debut March 3, though his second outing was derailed early. He allowed the first five batters he faced to reach base, the last of which was a grand slam by Michael Massey. He was pulled after recording just one out in the first inning but reentered one frame later and didn't fare any better. Cease is coming off an excellent 2022 season, so it's too early to panic despite the incredibly poor outing.
Jan 13 2023Cease signed a one-year, $5.7 million contract with the White Sox on Friday to avoid arbitration, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's a massive raise for Cease, who was in his first year of arbitration eligibility. The bump in pay was earned, of course, after the right-hander held a 2.20 ERA and 227:78 K:BB across 184 innings in 2022 to finish runner-up in the American League Cy Young voting.
Oct 1 2022Cease (14-8) allowed four runs on five hits and four walks while striking out five in five-plus innings, taking the loss Saturday versus the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had quality starts in five of his last six starts entering Saturday. He didn't meet that mark, allowing a solo shot to Juan Soto and a two-run home run to Jake Cronenworth. Austin Nola tacked on an RBI single after Cease left the game with two on and no out in the sixth inning. Despite the disappointing finale, the 26-year-old right-hander established himself among baseball's elite pitchers in 2022. He ends the campaign with a 2.20 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and a career-high 227 strikeouts in 184 innings across 32 starts.
Sep 25 2022Cease allowed four hits and three walks while striking out five in six scoreless innings during Sunday's loss to the Tigers. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although Cease was in line for the win when he exited Sunday's matchup, he didn't get much support from the White Sox's offense and was forced to settle for a second consecutive no-decision. The right-hander has been dominant since the start of September, posting a 1.13 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in 32 innings over five starts. He projects to make his nest start on the road against San Diego on Saturday.
Sep 20 2022Cease allowed a run on four hits and three walks while striking out three over six innings in a no-decision versus the Guardians on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease limited the damage to an Austin Hedges sacrifice fly in the second inning despite allowing more than five or more baserunners for a third straight start. Cease has logged quality starts in four of his last five outings and still appears to be one of the best pitchers in the American League, though he's faded a bit from his midseason peak. The right-hander owns a 2.13 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 217:71 K:BB through 173 innings across 30 starts. He's tentatively set for a favorable home start versus the Tigers in his next outing.
Sep 14 2022Cease (14-7) was tagged with the loss after he pitched five innings, giving up three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out eight against the Rockies on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease wasn't the best version of himself Wednesday, allowing two runs to score in the second frame before a C.J. Cron single in the fifth inning drove in the final run on his line. The 26-year-old came into the contest having given up just two runs over 23 innings in his last three starts combined, but Wednesday's outing ended his quality start streak at three outings. That being said, Cease still owns an awfully impressive 2.16 ERA and 1.08 WHIP with an eye popping 214 punchouts over 167 innings in 29 starts this season.
Sep 9 2022Cease (14-6) earned the victory Thursday in Oakland, striking out nine in six scoreless innings while allowing three hits and two walks in a 14-2 win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease made it look easy Thursday, allowing just one baserunner to reach second base and punching out nine. He's allowed only four hits and four walks while fanning 16 in 15 scoreless innings in September. In Thursday's outing, he passed the 200 strikeout mark for the second consecutive season. The 26-year-old's ERA has dropped to 2.06 for the year and he's certainly in contention for the American League Cy Young award. His next start will likely be in the middle of next week against Colorado.
Sep 3 2022Cease (13-6) pitched a complete-game shutout Saturday versus the Twins, allowing one hit and two walks while striking out seven in nine innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease came within an out of a no-hitter before Luis Arraez broke it up with a single. It was still an excellent performance and the second shutout of Cease's career as well as his best outing of 2022. The right-hander entered Saturday without a win in his last four starts. He was also fairly efficient in this gem, throwing 68 of 103 pitches for strikes while racking up 14 whiffs. He now has a 2.13 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 197:64 K:BB through 156 innings across 27 starts in what could be a Cy Young campaign. Cease is projected for a favorable road start in Oakland next week.
Aug 29 2022Cease gave up two earned runs on two hits and one walk while striking out eight over eight innings in a 3-2 loss to the Diamondbacks on Sunday. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease continued his breakout 2022 campaign with an eight-inning quality start on 103 pitches. The only damage came on a pair of solo home runs. It was his longest start of the season and Cease lowered his ERA to 2.27 with the effort. The 26-year-old right-hander now has 16 games of eight or more strikeouts this year. The total is best in the majors. Cease is tentatively expected to make his next start against the Twins.
Aug 23 2022Cease (12-6) took the loss Tuesday in Baltimore, allowing four runs on three hits and three walks while striking out four in 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease struggled with his command throughout the outing and tossed just 50 of his 93 pitches for strikes. Baltimore got off to a fast start against the righty as Ryan Mountcastle knocked a three-run homer in the first. Following the homer, Cease retired 13 of the next 14 batters he faced before the Orioles tacked on another run in the sixth. After allowing one earned run or fewer in 14 straight starts, Cease has allowed seven earned runs in 10.1 innings over his last two starts.
Aug 21 2022Cease and the White Sox won't face the Guardians on Sunday after the game was postponed due to unplayable field conditions, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Due to inclement weather in the Cleveland area, the game was delayed from its scheduled 12:05 p.m. ET start time, only to be officially postponed just over three hours later. Because he had warmed up prior to the game being cancelled, Cease won't start Monday in Kansas City and will instead make his next start Tuesday in Baltimore, per James Fegan of The Athletic. The White Sox and Guardians will make up Sunday's postponed game Sept. 15.
Aug 16 2022Cease allowed three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out four over five innings in a no-decision versus the Astros on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Entering Tuesday, Cease hadn't allowed multiple earned runs in 14 straight starts. The Astros ended that impressive stretch with a pair of RBI doubles in the third inning, and Jose Altuve tacked on a solo home run in the fifth. Cease was spared from taking the loss as the White Sox rallied for the lead and held on to win. His ERA rose slightly to 2.09 with a 1.17 WHIP and 178:68 K:BB through 133.2 innings across 24 starts this year. He's tentatively projected for a road start in Cleveland this weekend.
Aug 11 2022Cease (12-5) allowed one earned run on three hits and two walks while striking out eight across six innings to take the loss Thursday against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease took a tough-luck loss, as the only run he allowed came on a solo home run by Vinnie Pasquantino. Cease dominated the Royals lineup otherwise, racking up 19 swinging strikes across 94 total pitches. He's now allowed one or fewer earned runs in 14 consecutive starts, helping him maintain a stellar 1.96 ERA across 128.2 frames for the season.
Aug 5 2022Cease (12-4) allowed one run on two hits and three walks over six innings Friday, striking out five and earning a win over the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease gave up an RBI single to Adolis Garcia in the first inning but settled in and fired five shutout innings afterward. He's now gone 10 consecutive starts allowing fewer than two runs and hasn't given up more than one earned run in a start since May 24. In 13 starts since that date, Cease is sporting a tremendous 0.59 ERA with a 95:34 K:BB. On the year, he owns a 1.98 ERA through 122.2 frames. Cease is lined up to start in Kansas City next week.
Aug 1 2022Cease (11-4) gave up one earned run on four hits and a walk while striking out seven over six innings to earn the win in a 4-1 victory over the Athletics on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease continued his breakout 2022 campaign by making easy work of the Athletics sub-par lineup. The 26-year-old right-hander's seven strikeouts now gives him 161 on the year, good for second in all of MLB. Cease will carry a superb 2.01 ERA into is next start which is tentatively expected to be a favorable one at Texas.
Jul 24 2022Cease (10-4) allowed seven hits and a walk over six scoreless innings Sunday, striking out four and earning a win over the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite putting eight runners on base, Cease turned in his third straight scoreless appearance. He's allowed one or fewer earned runs in eight consecutive starts, posting a terrific 0.57 ERA and 65:16 K:BB during that stretch. He lowered his season ERA to 2.03 through 110.2 frames. Cease is lined up to face the Athletics at home next weekend.
Jul 17 2022Cease (9-4) earned the win Sunday in Minnesota, striking out eight in seven scoreless innings while allowing a hit and two walks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease faced the minimum through the first four innings and fanned six of those batters. In the fifth, he allowed a walk and a single with one out but neutralized the offense with consecutive strikeouts to end the frame. While he didn't strike out a batter in his final two innings of work, he efficiently retired all six batters he faced, needing just 22 pitches. The 26-year-old has not allowed more than one earned run in any of his last 10 starts and is 8-2 with a 0.47 ERA and 79:29 K:BB in 58 innings over that span.
Jul 13 2022Cease (8-4) picked up the win in the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Guardians, allowing five hits and three walks over 5.2 scoreless innings in a 7-0 victory. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander continued an incredible run that has seen him give up one earned run or fewer in nine straight starts. Cease has seen his ERA drop from 4.24 to 2.30 over that stretch, and on the season he also boasts a 1.24 WHIP and 34.4 percent strikeout rate that is second only to Tampa Bay's Shane McClanahan (36.0 percent) among big-league starting pitchers.
Jul 7 2022Cease (7-4) took the loss Thursday against Detroit, allowing a run on three hits and a walk while fanning eight in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was a strikeout machine again Thursday, twice fanning three batters in an inning. The lone run against him came on a Javier Baez solo homer in the fourth. The 26-year-old has fanned eight batters or more in five of his last six starts and has allowed one earned run or fewer in eight straight starts. His next start will likely be early next week in Cleveland.
Jul 2 2022Cease (7-3) registered the win during Saturday's 5-3 victory over San Francisco, allowing one run on four hits and three walks with four strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease's lone run surrendered came on his second pitch as LaMonte Wade took him 424-feet deep to right center, but he proceeded to navigate five scoreless frames thereafter despite traffic on the bases in every inning. The 26-year-old induced a whopping 19 swinging strikes on 104 pitches, but tied his second lowest total of the season with only four strikeouts and still ranks second in the league with 125. On the other hand, the three free passes added to his league-leading total of 40 through 86 innings. Cease has allowed just two earned runs (and 10 more unearned runs) over 39.1 innings across his last seven starts and will look to keep things rolling against Detroit midweek.
Jun 26 2022Cease (6-3) earned the win Sunday over Baltimore, fanning 13 in seven innings while allowing one run on four hits and a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease struck out six of the first seven batters he faced on his way to a season-high 13 strikeouts. The lone run against him came on Jonathan Arauz's third-inning solo shot. It was his second consecutive double-digit strikeout performance and he finished the month of June with 45 punchouts in 27.1 innings. His 13.4 strikeouts per nine innings lead all of baseball. The 26-year-old's next start will likely be next weekend in San Francisco.
Jun 21 2022Cease struck out 11 in six scoreless innings while allowing a hit and two walks. He did not factor into the decision in a 7-6 win Tuesday against Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease baffled the Toronto lineup, striking out 11 of the 20 batters he faced. He left the game with a 2-0 lead but Chicago's bullpen blew the save and his opportunity to earn his sixth victory. The 26-year-old did not allow an earned run for the fifth straight start, although 10 unearned runs have scored against him in that span. It was the third time this season that he fanned 11 opponents in a game.
Jun 14 2022Cease (5-3) earned the win Tuesday in Detroit, allowing one unearned run on seven hits and one walk over five innings. He struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was inefficient once again, needing 108 pitches to record 15 outs, but it was enough for the right-hander to get back in the win column for the first time in nearly a month. Amazingly, all 10 runs scored against Cease in his last four starts have been unearned. He's been walking a fine line with 15 walks in that span (21.1 innings).
Jun 9 2022Cease (4-3) allowed six runs (none earned) on six hits and three walks while striking out eight across 4.2 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease worked four scoreless innings, though things unraveled in his final frame. He got into a jam on his own but wasn't helped by an error committed by third base Jake Burger (leg). After the miscue, Cease allowed two doubles, a walk and an infield single prior to being yanked. While he worked around a lack of control in recent starts, Cease has now surrendered 14 free passes across his last 16.1 frames. Given that all the runs he surrendered were unearned, Cease still owns a 3.14 ERA with an 89:33 K:BB across 63 innings on the season.
Jun 5 2022Cease allowed two unearned runs on one hit and seven walks while striking out five over 4.2 innings against Tampa Bay on Saturday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease gave up only one hit in the contest, but he had a tough time finding the strike zone, issuing a season-high seven free passes. That resulted in the right-hander running up his pitch count to 101 in less than five innings, and he was pulled after an error led to the second unearned run against him in the fifth. Cease has had an up-and-down campaign, but he has been solid overall with a 3.39 ERA, 1.29 WHIP and 81:30 K:BB across 58.1 innings. He's expected to make his next start at home against Texas next week.
Jun 3 2022Cease (not injury related) was reinstated from the restricted list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was unavailable for the White Sox's recent road trip to Toronto, but he'll rejoin the team ahead of this weekend's series against the Rays. He's listed as the probable starter for Saturday's matchup against Tampa Bay.
May 30 2022Cease was placed on the restricted list Monday ahead of the White Sox's three-game trip to Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The move indicates that Cease has declined get vaccinated against COVID-19 and has therefore made himself ineligible to cross the border into Canada. He wasn't going to pitch in this series anyway, as he'd just started Sunday against the Cubs, so he'll be able to rejoin his teammates prior to his next turn in the rotation.
May 29 2022Cease allowed an unearned run on two hits and four walks while striking out five over seven innings in a 5-4 win Sunday against the Cubs. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was effectively wild Sunday, throwing only 63 of 108 pitches for strikes. The lone run against him came when Jake Burger misplayed a difficult ground ball with two outs in the seventh. May was a bit of a roller-coaster ride for the 26-year-old, as he allowed one or fewer runs in four starts and six or more in the other two. For the month, he amassed a 3.98 ERA and 1.29 WHIP with a 48:13 K:BB in 31.2 innings. His next start will likely be next weekend in Tampa Bay.
May 24 2022Cease (4-2) was tagged with the loss Tuesday after he tossed four innings, allowing seven runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out four against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease surrendered two home runs in the first inning, giving the Red Sox an early 4-0 lead. He later gave up another three runs and his four innings on the mound matched his shortest outing of the season. After posting a 2.38 ERA and 1.00 WHIP over 34 innings his first six starts of the campaign, Cease has struggled recently, giving up 13 runs over 13.2 frames in his last three outings. His season-long numbers now stand at 4.24 ERA and 1.31 WHIP with an incredible 13.69 K/9 over 46.2 innings in nine starts.
May 18 2022Cease (4-1) picked up the win in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Royals, allowing seven hits and two walks over 5.2 scoreless innings. He struck out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander fired 94 pitches (61 strikes) in falling just short of his third quality start of the season, but it was still another dominant outing for Cease. He's struck out at least eight batters in each of his last five starts, posting a 2.93 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and stunning 48:10 K:BB through 27.2 innings over that stretch.
May 12 2022Cease did not factor in the decision against the Yankees on Thursday, hurling four innings during which he gave up six runs on six hits and two walks while striking out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease racked up an impressive 20 swinging strikes among his 90 pitches and tied his season high with 11 punchouts, but he also surrendered his most runs of the campaign thus far. He was victimized by a pair of Giancarlo Stanton homers in the contest that accounted for four of the six runs against him. The right-hander had been excellent at keeping the ball in the park prior to Thursday, allowing just one homer over his first six starts. Despite the tough outing, Cease has been a solid fantasy asset this season, tying for the league lead with 58 strikeouts while posting a 3.55 ERA over 38 innings. HIs next start is scheduled to come in Kansas City early next week.
May 8 2022Cease allowed one earned run on four hits and three walks while striking out eight across five innings Saturday against Boston. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease struggled to work efficiently as he needed 101 pitches to record 15 outs. However, he otherwise continued to showcase strong stuff, highlighted by 16 swinging strikes. Cease has now racked up at least eight strikeouts in all but one of his six starts this season and has maintained a 2.38 ERA with a 1.00 WHIP and a 47:13 K:BB across 34 innings.
May 2 2022Cease (3-1) earned the win Tuesday after he pitched seven scoreless innings, giving up just one hit while striking out 11 batters against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was almost perfect Monday, posting a season high 11 strikeouts while allowing just one hit, a double by Taylor Ward in the fourth inning. It was his second straight quality start and he now sports a 2.48 ERA and 0.93 WHIP with a very impressive 12.10 K/9. With Lance Lynn (knee) on the shelf, Cease has stepped up into being a very strong second option in the rotation behind Lucas Giolito early this season.
Apr 21 2022Cease (2-1) allowed four earned runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out three across 5.1 innings to take the loss Thursday against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease surrendered his first home run of the season in the third inning to Franmil Reyes, which accounted for two of his earned runs. The trouble continued when he allowed six runners to reach base across his final 1.1 frames, resulting in two additional runs being scored. While Cease has largely been strong to begin the season, he has issued multiple free passes in all three of his starts so far. Even so, he has a 3.38 ERA with a 19:7 K:BB across 16 innings early on in the campaign.
Apr 15 2022Cease (2-0) allowed one run on three hits and two walks over 5.2 innings Friday, striking out eight and earning a win over Tampa Bay. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease cruised through five shutout frames with little pushback from the Rays' lineup. The 6-foot-2 righty walked Brandon Lowe to begin the sixth inning and was later charged with that run when Aaron Bummer coughed up back-to-back two-out doubles. Cease is now 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA and a 16:5 K:BB through 10.2 frames. He's lined up to take the mound in Cleveland next week.
Apr 9 2022Cease (1-0) picked up the win after tossing five innings, surrendering one run on two hits and three walks while striking out eight in the 5-2 victory over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was very effective in his season debut, limiting the Tigers to just five baserunners while whiffing eight batters. The 26-year-old was pulled after he allowed a single to Austin Meadows to open the sixth inning and Meadows later scored off of a Jeimer Candelario double off of Reynaldo Lopez, proving to be the only blemish on Cease's performance. After producing a respectable 3.91 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with an electric 12.3 K/9 over 32 starts with the White Sox in 2021, he'll look to take another step up here in 2022.
Apr 4 2022Cease is scheduled to start the White Sox's second game of the season Saturday in Detroit, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease wasn't a lock to get a start during the White Sox's season-opening series, but Lance Lynn's imminent knee surgery erased any doubt that the 26-year-old would make his 2022 debut in Detroit. The right-hander enjoyed something of a breakthrough campaign in 2021, going 13-7 with a 3.91 ERA and 1.25 WHIP over 165.2 innings while ranking fifth among all qualified pitchers with a 31.9 percent strikeout rate. Cease's mediocre 33.3 percent groundball rate and 9.6 percent walk rate were less than desirable, however, and until he makes improvements in those areas, he probably can't be counted on to take a major step forward in the ERA and WHIP categories.
Oct 11 2021Cease didn't factor into the decision Sunday in the White Sox's 12-6 win over Astros in Game 3 of the ALDS after giving up three runs on two hits and three walks while striking out two in 1.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With the White Sox facing a 2-0 series deficit entering Sunday, manager Tony La Russa didn't take long to turn the game over to the bullpen while Cease was laboring in the second inning. Cease tossed only 20 of his 44 pitches for strikes and induced only three swings and misses before La Russa pulled the plug on him. Given the short outing, Cease should be available to pitch as soon as Wednesday's Game 5, but it's unclear if La Russa will be eager to go back to the right-hander after the rough postseason debut.
Oct 9 2021Cease will start Game 3 of the ALDS against the Astros on Sunday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease dealt with a bruised right triceps late in the year but closed out the regular season on a high note, recording a 0.63 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in 14.1 innings across his last three starts. The right-hander will attempt to force a Game 4 during Sunday's home start.
Oct 3 2021Cease allowed one run on four hits and two walks while striking out five in four innings during Sunday's loss to the Tigers. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease exited his last start due to a bruised right triceps, but he was sharp in his return to the mound Sunday. The right-hander recorded a 0.63 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 24:2 K:BB in 14.1 innings across his final three starts of the regular season, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him factor into the team's postseason rotation plans.
Sep 28 2021Cease (triceps) is in line to start Sunday's game against the Tigers, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease is still dealing with a bruised right triceps, but White Sox manager Tony La Russa wants the 25-year-old to throw once more during the regular season in preparation for the playoffs. The right-hander left his most recent start Friday in Cleveland after getting hit by a comebacker.
Sep 24 2021Cease (triceps) doesn't expect to miss his next turn through the rotation, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was removed from Friday's game against Cleveland in the bottom of the sixth inning with a right triceps contusion that he sustained when he was hit by a comebacker. However, the right-hander downplayed the severity of the injury after the game and said he hopes to make one more start prior to the postseason. He'll presumably be monitored in the coming days to determine his availability, but he projects to make his next start at home against the Tigers next weekend.
Sep 17 2021Cease (12-7) allowed four hits and two walks over five scoreless innings Friday, striking out 10 and earning a win over Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease put runners in scoring position multiple times but never faced much danger in Friday's dominant win. He's reached double-digit strikeouts in eight of his 30 starts this season, going 7-1 during those appearances. The 25-year-old had just one double-digit strikeout game in his 26 career starts before the 2021 campaign. Cease lowered his ERA to 4.09 with a 212:66 K:BB through 156.1 innings. He's projected to take the mound in Cleveland next week.
Sep 12 2021Cease didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 9-8 loss to the Red Sox, surrendering seven runs on four hits and five walks over 2.2 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander tossed only 40 of 71 pitches for strikes in his worst outing of the season, but Cease was taken off the hook for his eighth loss when the White Sox rallied from a 7-2 deficit to tie the score in the fourth inning. Fatigue could be a factor for the 25-year-old, as his 151.1 innings so far in 2021 is a career high and a huge jump from last year's 58.1 IP, but it's only a small increase on his 2019 workload. On the bright side, he did reach 200 strikeouts for the first time with Saturday's performance, and on the year he sports a 4.22 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 202:64 K:BB.
Sep 5 2021Cease (11-7) allowed four runs (three earned) on four hits and three walks over five innings Sunday, striking out nine and taking a loss against Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Most of the damage against Cease came in the first inning when he allowed a three-run shot to Salvador Perez before recording an out. Since his last loss on July 21, Cease was 4-0 with a 2.85 ERA and 56 punchouts in seven appearances. The 25-year-old righty owns a 3.87 ERA and a 197:59 K:BB through 148.2 innings on the year. Cease is projected to face Boston at home next weekend.
Aug 30 2021Cease (11-6) allowed one run on four hits and two walks while striking out 11 Sunday in a 13-1 blowout win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was lights out against the Cubs on Sunday, posting his seventh game of at least 10 strikeouts or more this season. His only major mistake was allowing a solo homer to Frank Schwindel in the fourth inning. The 25-year-old is currently tied for fourth in the majors with 188 strikeouts and is in the top five with an 11.9 K/9 along with Corbin Burnes, Gerrit Cole, Max Scherzer and Robbie Ray. Cease's evolution on the mound in 2021 has been spectacular, as he now owns a 3.82 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 188:56 K:BB over 143.2 innings. He's lined up for a meeting against the Royals during the week and sports a 1.21 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 26:9 K:BB against them in four meetings this season.
Aug 25 2021Cease improved to 10-6 after limiting the Blue Jays to one run on four hits and one walk while striking out seven in seven innings Tuesday in the White Sox's 5-2 victory. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The White Sox staked Cease to a 4-0 lead before he first took the mound for the bottom of the first inning, and the right-hander ensured his side maintained that advantage from wire to wire. Toronto didn't break through against Cease until the seventh inning, when Corey Dickerson took the right-hander deep for a solo shot. Cease, who owns a 3-2 record, 3.55 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 11.9 K/9 since the All-Star break, tentatively lines up for his second start of the week Sunday at home versus the Cubs.
Aug 19 2021Cease allowed three earned runs on four hits and four walks while striking out five across six innings Thursday against the Athletics. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease surrendered a pair of solo home runs, which accounted for the majority of the damage against him. It was the first time that he allowed multiple long balls in a start since June 30 -- a stretch of eight appearances. He also didn't show his typical ability to induce whiffs, as he had just 12 swinging strikes on 102 total pitches. Even so, Cease escaped with his third quality start in his last five outings. For the season, Cease has a 4.06 ERA with 170 strikeouts and 53 walks across 130.2 innings.
Aug 14 2021Cease allowed three runs on four hits in a no-decision Saturday against the Yankees. He had six strikeouts and did not issue a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease gave up an Aaron Judge sacrifice fly and a Joey Gallo solo homer in the first inning, but largely minimized the damage the rest of the way. Perhaps most encouraging was the fact that Cease put up a zero in the walk column for just the second time in 24 starts this season. The 25-year-old is 9-6 on the year with a 4.04 ERA and 1.25 WHIP across 124.2 innings, while striking out an AL-leading 165 hitters.
Aug 8 2021Cease (9-6) won Sunday's 9-3 contest against the Cubs, allowing three runs on five hits and three walks with 10 strikeouts in five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was staked to a five-run lead before he even took the mound and cruised to an easy victory once he completed the fifth inning. He surrendered seven of eight total baserunners and all three runs in the second and third innings combined but retired the final seven Cubs he faced to finish strong. The 25-year-old's 10 strikeouts come one start after whiffing 11 Royals and Cease now has 38 strikeouts across 32.2 innings in six second half starts.
Aug 3 2021Cease (8-6) allowed one hit and two walks while striking out 11 across six innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease surrendered only one hit, a single by Edward Olivares in the third inning. He racked up 21 swinging strikes to match a season-best 11 strikeouts. The effort was also his fifth double-digit strikeout effort of the season. Across his last five outings, Cease has allowed 10 earned runs across 27.2 innings while striking out 38 and walking nine. For the season, he's maintained a 3.92 ERA and racked up 149 strikeouts across 114.2 frames.
Jul 27 2021Cease allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits and one walk while striking out six across six innings Tuesday against the Royals. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease largely held the Royals in check, as the majority of struggles came in the second inning. He allowed only four hits across his last four frames of work and turned in his first quality start since June 30 -- a span of four starts. The effort also marked the first time that he has not walked multiple hitters or allowed at least one homer in his last five outings. Though he's been inconsistent of late, Cease has still managed a 4.14 ERA with 138 strikeouts across 108.2 frames on the campaign.
Jul 22 2021Cease (7-6) allowed three earned runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out five across five innings, taking the loss to the Twins on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease surrendered a solo home run to Max Kepler in the third inning. In addition, he gave up four straight hits with two outs in the fifth frame that added two more runs on the board for the Twins. The 25-year-old has struggled keeping the ball in the park, allowing at least one homer in seven of his last eight starts. During that stretch, he has a 5.49 ERA in 41 frames. Cease carries a 4.21 ERA, a 1.31 WHIP and a 11.6 K/9 in 102.2 innings for the season.
Jul 16 2021Cease (7-5) suffered the loss against Houston on Friday, tossing 5.2 innings and allowing three runs on six hits and two walks while striking out 10. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: There are many things to like about the right-hander's performance -- he fell one out shy of a quality start and notched double-digit strikeouts for the fourth time this season -- but the effort nonetheless resulted in Cease's fifth loss. Still, he has enjoyed a strong fantasy campaign thus far, particularly in the strikeout department. After posting a paltry 6.8 K/9 in 2020, Cease has registered 127 punchouts in 97.2 frames this season. He'll carry a 4.15 ERA into his next start, which is expected to come at home against Minnesota on Wednesday.
Jul 11 2021Cease didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the Orioles after giving up two runs on two hits and two walks while fanning six across five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease has struck out at least six in each of his last four outings while also giving up two or fewer runs in three of those outings, so the flamethrowing righty has been providing value with his punchouts. Cease has been a bit inconsistent when it comes to allowing runs and owns a 4.11 ERA on the season, but he has also struck out 117 across 92 innings.
Jul 6 2021Cease (7-4) allowed six runs on six hits, two walks and a hit batsman while striking out eight over 5.1 innings in taking the loss to Minnesota on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The White Sox didn't offer much support to Cease, who left with the team trailing 6-1, but he wasn't sharp against the same team he quelled five days earlier. This marks the third time in the last seven starts he's surrendered six earned runs. Cease is expected to pitch once more before the All-Star break, lining up to start Sunday at Baltimore.
Jul 1 2021Cease (7-3) allowed two runs on three hits and three walks while striking out seven over six innings to gain the victory over Minnesota on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease didn't have to be good as the White Sox hit six home runs and scored 13 times in a romp over the Twins, but he still delivered a quality start. It was his second straight win and fourth in the last five starts. Cease's next start is projected for Monday at Minnesota.
Jun 23 2021Cease (6-3) allowed two runs (one earned) on seven hits and a walk in 5.2 innings. He struck out seven and earned the win in Wednesday's 4-3 victory over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty was pulled after 99 pitches and was one out shy of adding a quality start to Wednesday's stat line. Cease rebounded admirably from his rough, seven-run outing against the Astros, continuing his stretch of inconsistent pitching. Over his last seven starts, he's allowed at least five runs three times while yielding two or fewer in the other four outings. Cease is expected to make his next start Tuesday against the Twins.
Jun 17 2021Cease (5-3) allowed seven runs (six earned) on four hits and two walks while striking out four across 3.1 innings, taking the loss to the Astros on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease dug the White Sox into a hole early, allowing the first three batters he faced in the game to score on a Michael Brantley home run. In addition, he failed to make it through the fourth inning after the five of the six batters he faced reached safely before being relieved. Thursday's start was nearly identical to his June 1 start against Cleveland where he took his last loss. The 25-year-old still has had a great start to the season, with an ERA of 3.99 and a 11.4 K/9 in 70 innings.
Jun 12 2021Cease (5-2) allowed two runs on four hits and a walk with seven strikeouts in five innings to earn the win Saturday versus Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander's lone mistake was allowing a two-run home run to Harold Castro in the first inning. Cease had alternated strong and poorer starts in his previous six outings, but he put in a decent effort Saturday. He's pitched to a 3.38 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 85:29 K:BB across 66.2 innings in 13 starts. The 25-year-old lines up for a road start in Houston next week.
Jun 6 2021Cease (4-2) allowed five hits and a walk over seven shutout innings Sunday, striking out 10 and earning a win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Coming off his worst outing of the season in Cleveland, Cease bounced back with one of his best performances to date. A handful of Tigers reached scoring position but the 25-year-old righty escaped every potential threat with relative ease. He lowered his season ERA to 3.36 alongside a 78:27 K:BB through 12 starts. It's a noticeable improvement from his 4.01 ERA and 44:34 K:BB in 12 starts during the 2020 season. Cease is lined up to face Detroit again, this time on the road, next weekend.
Jun 5 2021Cease will start Sunday's series finale against Detroit, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander will be pitching on normal rest Sunday, and the White Sox will elect to start Carlos Rodon on Tuesday to give him additional rest. Across his last three starts, Cease has posted a 7.90 ERA and 1.76 WHIP in 13.2 innings.
Jun 1 2021Cease (3-2) took the loss Tuesday at Cleveland after surrendering six runs on eight hits with two strikeouts and one walk over 3.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old needed 94 pitches to record 10 outs, though he did generate 11 swings-and-misses. Cease has a 3.79 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 68:27 K:BB across 55 innings (11 starts) in 2021.
May 28 2021Cease (3-1) beat the Orioles on Thursday, giving up one run on four hits and two walks while striking out 10 over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease used all he had to get the win, throwing 111 pitches, including 29 swings-and-misses. That swing-and-miss total matched the Mets' Jacob deGrom for the most in the majors this season. As evidenced by the pitch count, it wasn't easy for Cease, who pitched out of jams in the first and sixth innings. The right-hander told Scott Merkin of MLB.com that he was motivated by his performance in his previous start, when the Yankees knocked him around for his first loss of the season. "A game like that is kind of like a slap to the face," said Cease. "It's like all right, you've got to make sure you get ahead in the count. You don't want to give them anything unnecessary so if you fall behind, it's a lot easier to hit." Cease's next turn in the rotation comes due Monday on the road against Cleveland.
May 22 2021Cease (2-1) took the loss Saturday against the Yankees after allowing five runs on five hits with six strikeouts and four walks across 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander showcased his swing-and-miss stuff by generating 20 swinging strikes, but he was wild and New York was still able to find success. It's the first major blemish of the season for Cease, who hadn't surrendered more than three runs in any of his first eight starts. He'll carry a 3.18 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 56:24 K:BB into his next outing.
May 16 2021Cease didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the Royals after allowing one unearned run on three hits and three walks while fanning three across 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was just one out away from what would've been his third quality start over his last four appearances. The right-hander has failed to complete five innings in four of his eight starts this season, but that hasn't happened in any of his last four outings and also continues to show swing-and-miss stuff, living up to the reputation he had as a prospect in the Cubs organization. Cease owns a 2.41 ERA so far and his next start is scheduled for next week at the Yankees.
May 11 2021Cease allowed three earned runs on five hits and two walks while striking out seven across five innings in Tuesday's win over the Twins. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had a rough second inning, which accounted for all three of his earned runs as well as three hits and a walk. However, he settled in from there and retired eight of the last 10 batters he faced. While Cease's overall box score doesn't stand out, he did continue to show swing-and-miss stuff by generating 20 swinging strikes on 97 total pitches. For the season, he now has a 2.80 ERA with a 47:17 K:BB across 35.1 innings. Cease lines up to make his next start Sunday against the Royals.
May 4 2021Cease (2-0) picked up the win Tuesday, giving up one hit and three walks over six scoreless innings in a 9-0 victory over the Reds while striking out a career-high 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander extended his scoreless streak to 13 innings with another dominant effort. Cease not only shut down a potent Cincy offense, he made a surprising contribution at the plate, going 3-for-3 with a double and a run scored. In the process, he became only the fourth pitcher in the expansion era to record hits in his first three career plate appearances. Cease will take a stellar 2.37 ERA and 40:15 K:BB through 30.1 innings into his next outing.
Apr 29 2021Cease (1-0) shutout the Tigers on three hits while striking out nine over seven innings in the second leg of Thursday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The righty was dealing Thursday and had the best start of his season, leaving the Tigers guessing all night. The 25-year-old threw 66 of his 91 pitches for strikes and now has a 2.96 ERA. It is noteworthy that Cease was dominant due to his sharp command as it was his first appearance without walking a batter.
Apr 23 2021Cease yielded two runs on three htis and three walks over 3.1 innings in Friday's win over Texas. He struck out five and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease needed 80 pitches just to get through 3.1 frames and clearly wasn't at his best. Still, the only damage against him came on a two-run shot by Nick Solak in the fourth. The 25-year-old now owns a 4.15 ERA and 20:12 K:BB across 17.1 innings. Cease is expected to face Detroit early next week at home.
Apr 17 2021Cease gave up two runs on six hits and three walks while fanning six across 4.2 innings Saturday against the Red Sox. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease has pitched exactly 4.2 innings in each of his first three starts of the season, but his numbers haven't been very good -- perhaps reflecting what happened last season when his 6.35 FIP didn't come close to supporting his 4.01 ERA. The 25-year-old right-hander has a 15:9 K:BB with a 3.86 ERA through 14 innings this year.
Apr 16 2021Cease (COVID-19 protocols) was reinstated from the injured list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease's reinstatement from the COVID-19 IL was expected after he had a series of negative tests following a mild illness Wednesday. Since Friday's series opener against the Red Sox was postponed due to inclement weather, Cease will start Saturday's contest against Boston.
Apr 15 2021Cease (COVID-19 protocols) is available to make his scheduled start against the Red Sox on Friday, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was displaying COVID-like symptoms Wednesday and was placed on the 10-day injured list as a precautionary measure. However, he was feeling good Thursday and has officially cleared the league's health and safety protocols after he tested negative once again. The right-hander posted a 3.86 ERA and 1.61 WHIP in 9.1 innings in his first two starts of the season.
Apr 14 2021Cease is going on the injured list Wednesday after displaying COVID-like symptoms, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has not tested positive for the virus, but the White Sox will be cautious and hold him out for now. He has not been ruled out for his scheduled start Friday in Boston, but the team has started discussing contingency plans in the event that Cease cannot make the start, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports.
Apr 11 2021Cease allowed a run on four hits and three walks with six strikeouts in 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Royals on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease failed to complete five innings for the second straight start, but he was more effective Sunday than in his season debut. The right-hander's only damage came on a Whit Merrifield RBI single in the fifth inning. Cease has a 3.86 ERA, 1.61 WHIP and 9:6 K:BB across 9.1 innings this year. His next start is expected to be Friday in Boston.
Apr 10 2021Cease will start Sunday's game against the Royals, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was scheduled to start Saturday's matchup before it was rained out, but he'll end up taking the mound one day later for Sunday's series finale. Cease allowed three runs on five hits and three walks while striking out three in 4.2 innings during his season debut against the Angels on Sunday.
Apr 4 2021Cease threw 4.2 innings Sunday against the Angels, allowing three runs on five hits and three walks while striking out three. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It wasn't a particularly encouraging start to the season for Cease, whose 6.35 FIP didn't come close to supporting his 4.01 ERA last year. The Angels got to him right away, with Shohei Ohtani homering in the first inning and Justin Upton hitting a sacrifice fly later in the frame. David Fletcher added another run with an RBI single in the fourth. Cease will look to get back on track in his next start, which should come Saturday against the Royals.
Mar 30 2021Cease allowed one run on six hits and struck out 11 over 5.1 innings in Tuesday's spring game against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease cruised in his final tuneup before the regular season, throwing 86 pitches (58 strikes) with a fastball touching the upper 90s. The lone blemish was a solo home run by C.J. Cron in the second inning of what was his best Cactus League start. Cease leaves Arizona with a boost of confidence in preparation to start the fourth game of the season, April 4, against the Angels in Los Angeles. Cease allowed just two runs over 17 innings this spring.
Mar 21 2021Cease allowed three hits and three walks while striking out three over 3.2 innings in Saturday's spring game against Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Cease's second Cactus League outing, but he's thrown simulated games and bullpens, so his pitch count (73 pitches, 45 strikes) is right where it needs to be at this stage of the spring. Despite the free passes allowed, Cease told Scott Merkin of MLB.com that he was pleased with the outing. His fastball topped out at 99 MPH, and he feels the slider was locked in. The right-hander lamented his curveball, but Cease managed to come out of the outing unscathed. Limiting damage with a lot of traffic on the bases is something that should be taken as a positive as Cease prepares for the time when games count.
Mar 16 2021Cease allowed one hit and struck out two over three scoreless innings in Monday's spring game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: On the day when manager Tony La Russa identified the top three starters in the rotation, Cease solidified his hold on the No. 4 spot with an impressive Cactus League debut. The right-hander worked on fixing his mechanics during the offseason and early in camp, and he was pleased with the outcome. "There's always things that can be improved and worked on," Cease told Scott Merkin of MLB.com. "Threw my stuff in the zone, no walks. Made them put it in play. I'm happy with that. It's definitely encouraging." The young starter, who has drawn raves from coaches and catchers alike during his bullpen sessions this spring, had a 4.01 ERA in 2020, which involved a bit of luck, as Cease had a 6.35 FIP and .242 BABIP.
Mar 11 2021Cease is the scheduled starter for Monday's game against the Cubs, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease, who threw a live batting practice session on the team's off day Wednesday, will be making his Cactus League debut when he faces the White Sox's crosstown rivals. His spring activity has been limited to bullpen sessions and a three-inning simulated game in which he worked on fixing mechanical flaws in his delivery.
Mar 6 2021Cease pitched a simulated game Friday and got up and down three times, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease got positive reviews from manager Tony La Russa ("excellent") and catcher Jonathan Lucroy ("devastating arsenal"). The right-hander has not yet appeared in a Cactus League game, but he is expected to serve as the fourth starter behind Lucas Giolito, Dallas Keuchel and Lance Lynn.
Feb 19 2021Cease has worked with White Sox pitching coach Ethan Katz to correct mechanical flaws in his lower body, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease threw a side session Thursday under the watchful eye of catcher Yasmani Grandal, who liked what he saw. "If we get him to where we see him going, this guy could be a Cy Young finalist," Grandal said. "He could possibly be a Cy Young winner. He's got the tools to do it, there's no doubt on that." The right-hander pitched to a 4.01 ERA and 1.44 WHIP with 44 strikeouts and 34 walks over 58.1 innings in 2020. Cease is expected to claim a spot at the back end of the rotation to start the season.
Sep 25 2020Cease (5-4) allowed five runs on five hits and two walks while striking out five over 4.2 innings in a loss to the Cubs on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease had walked 12 batters in his last two starts (7.2 innings) entering Friday's game. He was able to cut down on the free passes in his regular-season finale, but Cease probably got too much of the strike zone as the Cubs teed off for homers in the second, third and fourth innings. The 24-year-old is in a bad way right now, though he could still be a weapon for the team during the postseason working in shorter spurts out of the bullpen.
Sep 20 2020Cease (5-3) allowed three runs on seven walks over three hitless innings in a loss to the Reds on Sunday. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was effectively wild through three innings, but the effectiveness vanished in the fourth. He walked the bases loaded to begin that frame before being pulled, with Ross Detwiler allowing all three inherited runners to score. The right-hander walked five in his previous outing, and manager Rick Renteria told Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times that the team will try "to get to the bottom of what corrections need to be made." Cease is expected to make another start to attempt to get things fixed, likely Friday against the Cubs.
Sep 14 2020Cease allowed a run on five hits and five walks and struck out four over 4.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Twins on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease allowed just an RBI single to Jorge Polanco in the fifth despite the high baserunner count. Monday was the third time in 10 starts Cease has issued five or more walks. The 24-year-old has a 3.20 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 34:25 K:BB across 50.2 innings this season. His next start is expected to be Saturday in Cincinnati.
Sep 8 2020Cease allowed five hits and no walks while striking out two across five innings Tuesday against the Pirates. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease worked efficiently, surrendering no free passes and needing only 79 pitches to get 15 outs. He left the contest in position for a win, but the Pirates ultimately rallied to spoil his chances. While he has only 30 strikeouts across 46 innings, Cease has allowed no more than three runs in eight of his nine starts this season. He'll take his next turn through the rotation Sunday against Detroit.
Sep 3 2020Cease (5-2) earned the win Thursday after holding the Royals to three runs on four hits and a pair of walks while striking out one across five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After giving up a solo home run to Hunter Dozier in the first inning, Cease settled into a steady routine, blanking the Royals until the sixth, when Alex Gordon broke through with an RBI double. The 24-year-old didn't miss many bats, registering only a strikeout of Dozier later in the fifth frame. Cease was making his second straight start against the Royals. Last time out, he gave up one run and six walks over 4.1 innings. The right-hander will carry a 3.29 ERA and 1.34 WHIP into a Wednesday matchup at Pittsburgh.
Aug 29 2020Cease gave up one run on one hit and six walks over 4.1 innings during Saturday's 9-6 loss to the Royals. He had five strikeouts and didn't factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only run Cease allowed actually came on a solo homer, despite the fact he delivered only 45 of his 93 pitches for strikes. It was an ugly outing, but he was able to limit the damage even without much command. The right-hander has a 3.00 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 27:18 K:BB through 36 innings and lines up to face the Royals again Thursday.
Aug 23 2020Cease (4-2) allowed two earned runs on four hits and two walks while striking out five across six innings to take the loss Sunday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease turned in another strong outing, but was outdueled by Yu Darvish. The only runs he surrendered came on a two-run home run by Kyle Schwarber in the sixth inning. Cease continued to experience control problems that have popped up in several starts this season, as he now has multiple walks in three of his six outings. Still, he's limited hard contact well and has been able to maintain a 3.13 ERA across 31.2 innings as a result. His next turn through the rotation is currently penciled in for Saturday against Kansas City.
Aug 18 2020Cease (4-1) earned the win Tuesday against the Tigers. He allowed two runs on five hits and three walks while fanning three across 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease gave up a solo home run to Jonathan Schoop, but he looked excellent in the mound aside from that minor mistake. Cease has now won each of his last four starts, posting three quality starts during that stretch and reducing his ERA to 3.16 after his first five outings. His next scheduled start is set for Aug. 23 on the road against the Cubs.
Aug 12 2020Cease (3-1) earned the win Wednesday against the Tigers after allowing five runs (one earned) on seven hits with five strikeouts and zero walks over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The White Sox actually didn't commit an error during the contest, but a passed ball on a strikeout during the fourth inning resulted in all four of the runs that followed being unearned. Cease is off to a strong start in 2020 with a 3.26 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 14:6 K:BB through 19.1 innings, and he lines up to face Detroit again early next week.
Aug 7 2020Cease (2-1) tossed five scoreless innings, allowing two hits and five walks while striking out four to earn the win over Cleveland on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was a little shaky with his command, but the five free passes didn't come around to hurt him. The 24-year-old lowered his ERA to 4.05 with a 1.50 WHIP and nine strikeouts across 13.1 innings in 2020. Friday was also the first time Cease didn't allow a homer in three starts this year. Expect the right-hander to take the mound Wednesday versus the Tigers.
Aug 2 2020Cease (1-1) earned the win over the Royals on Sunday when he allowed two runs on five hits and one walk while striking out four over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease, who was chased after 2.1 innings in his first start, did two things better Sunday. He threw more strikes -- 54 of 83 pitches -- and he hit his spots more often. Cease hopes to build on this quality start when he next takes the ball Friday at home against Cleveland.
Jul 28 2020Cease (0-1) took the loss against the Indians in Game 1 of Tuesday's doubleheader after allowing four runs on seven hits and zero walks while recording one strikeout over 2.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 24-year-old's first start of 2020 was one to forget, as he struggled with the strikezone and threw only 34 of his 64 pitches for strikes while also surrendering two home runs. Cease made his big-league debut last year and had 14 starts for the White Sox with a 5.79 ERA, 1.55 WHIP and 81:35 K:BB over 73 innings, and his second season is off to a rocky start. Depending how Chicago orders its rotation coming out of the doubleheader, the right-hander's next outing could be Sunday in Kansas City or in the following days at Milwaukee.
Jul 27 2020Cease won't start Monday in Cleveland as the game has been postponed due to rain, Tom Withers of the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader Tuesday. Cease will start the first game of the day, Ryan Lewis of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.
Jul 6 2020Cease threw live batting practice Monday, Scott Merkin of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease was hit hard at times during the session, but he was pleased to get his work in. "The hitters, they squared me up pretty good that first inning, but I was able to execute a little bit better in innings two and three. But yeah they did pretty good," said the pitcher. The right-hander had a bumpy first season in 2019, finishing 4-7 with a 5.79 ERA over 14 starts. He looked better during spring training and looks to carry that through to the regular season.
May 8 2020Cease is looking to build off his first season in the majors and will introduce a tweak to his mechanics, Scot Gregor of the Daily Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease's MLB debut was a bumpy one, as he went 4-7 with a 5.79 ERA in 14 starts. "One of (the things I learned) was more a physical adjustment with my front side," Cease said. "Not getting too rotational on my front side, that's the main thing that's going to be different. I think that's one of the big reasons I was having cutting issues with my fastball." Cease, who permitted 4.3 BB/9 and 1.8 HR/9, hopes the mechanical adjustment will allow him to pitch deeper into games. While his overall numbers were not pretty, the right-hander finished on an up note, allowing seven runs over 21 innings (3.00 ERA) with 28 strikeouts and 12 walks in his final four starts. He's expected to slot in as the fourth starter in the rotation.
Mar 10 2020Cease allowed three runs on four hits, three walks and a hit batsman while striking out three over three-plus innings in Monday's spring game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease's third spring start was not like his first two. The same issues he had last season -- command, walks, one bad inning -- resurfaced for the first time this spring. He lost command during a two-run third inning when the right-hander walked three and hit a batter. Just 36 of his 64 pitches landed in the zone.
Mar 4 2020Cease allowed one run on three hits while striking out five over four innings in Wednesday's spring game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease upped his pitch count to 58 (40 strikes) and hit 98 mph on the gun during his second spring start. He battled an elevated walk rate in 2019, but Cease has yet to walk a batter in six spring innings. "Yeah, that was probably the best I've ever commanded my fastball," Cease told Scott Merkin of MLB.com. "Really, for most of the spring, my fastball command has been good, so it's just a continuation of the process I'm working on.
Feb 23 2020Cease threw two scoreless innings, striking out three and walking none in his spring debut Sunday against the Reds, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease made a strong first impression in game action after focusing on a mechanical tweak in the early portions of camp. He touched 99 mph with his fastball multiple times while also executing his curveball, slider and changeup throughout the outing. A high-pedigree prospect, Cease will look to improve on his 5.79 ERA through his first 14 starts in the big leagues.
Feb 15 2020Cease (hamstring) made a mechanical adjustment during the offseason designed to make his fastball more effective, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease, who finished with a 5.79 ERA in 14 starts in the majors, said he was getting too rotational on his front side, which in his opinion led to cutting issues with his fastball. Opponents teed off on the right-hander's heater, slugging .611 against it in 2019, per BrooksBaseball. Cease averaged a little more than five innings and 97 pitches per start, with innings one (9.00 ERA) and two (9.64) particularly troublesome. He's hoping the adjustment leads to fewer pitches per inning and deeper outings.
Sep 28 2019Cease was diagnosed with a Grade 1 (mild) hamstring strain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He did not make his scheduled start Thursday due to the injury, and clearly won't be able to pitch again this season. His recovery timeline is 2-to-4 weeks, so he should have a normal offseason.
Sep 26 2019Cease (hamstring) won't pitch again this season, James Fegan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cease is scheduled to have an MRI on Friday, but the White Sox have already stated that the right-hander won't pitch over the weekend. He'll finish with a 5.79 ERA and 1.55 WHIP with an 81:35 K:BB over 73 frames in 2019.
Sep 21 2019Cease (4-7) struck out eight and picked up the win in Friday's 10-1 rout of the Tigers, allowing one run on five hits and two walks over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the rookie's first win since Aug. 23 and his third career quality start. Cease will take the bump one more time in 2019, carrying a 5.79 ERA and 81:35 K:BB through 73 innings into Thursday's home start against Cleveland.
Sep 15 2019Cease didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 2-1 extra-inning loss to the Mariners, giving up one run on three hits and three walks over five innings while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The young right-hander engaged in a pitching duel with Felix Hernandez, but Cease stumbled first by serving up a solo shot to Shed Long in the fifth inning. Walks (4.4 BB/9) and homers (2.0 HR/9) continue to be issues for the 23-year-old, but his upside is undeniable if he can sharpen his command. He'll take a 6.18 ERA and 73:33 K:BB through his first 67 big-league innings into his next start Friday in Detroit.
Sep 8 2019Cease allowed one run on four hits with five walks and four strikeouts across 3.1 innings during a no-decision against the Angels on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was one of the 23-year-old's best outings of the year in terms of preventing hits, but it was a short one, so he settled for the no-decision. Part of the reason it was short was because he tied his season high with five walks, but none of them came around to score. Cease is 3-7 with a 6.53 ERA, 1.61 WHIP and 68 strikeouts in 62 innings this season. He will look to build off this outing at the Mariners in his next start Saturday.
Aug 29 2019Cease (3-7) allowed eight runs on 10 hits and one walk while striking out three over two-plus innings and picked up the loss to Minnesota on Thursday.
Aug 24 2019Cease (3-6) struck out nine and picked up the win in Friday's 8-3 victory over the Rangers, allowing three runs on four hits and a walk over six innings.
Aug 18 2019Cease (2-6) allowed five runs on seven hits and a walk over five innings Sunday, striking out six batters and taking the loss against the Angels.
Aug 13 2019Cease (2-5) allowed four runs (two earned) on five hits with five walks and two strikeouts across six innings while taking a loss against the Astros on Tuesday.
Aug 12 2019Cease won't make his scheduled start Monday against the Astros, as the game as been postponed due to inclement weather.
Aug 6 2019Cease (2-4) allowed two runs on seven hits with one walk and six strikeouts across five innings while earning a victory in game one of a doubleheader against the Tigers
Aug 1 2019Cease (1-4) took the loss against the Mets on Thursday, giving up four runs (three earned) on seven hits over seven innings, striking out six and walking two as the
Jul 27 2019Cease was saddled with the loss after allowing five runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out four over five innings against the Twins on Friday.
Jul 27 2019Cease was saddled with the loss after allowing five runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out four over five innings against the Twins on Friday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Cease (1-2) took the loss after surrendering four runs on three hits and four walks while striking out four over five innings Sunday against the Rays.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 16 2019Cease (1-1) allowed six runs (four earned) on eight hits with seven strikeouts and one walk across six innings while taking a loss against the Royals on Tuesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 13 2019Cease is slated to start<\/a> Tuesday's game against the Royals.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 3 2019The White Sox officially recalled<\/a> Cease from Triple-A Charlotte ahead of his scheduled start Wednesday in the first game of the team's doubleheader with the Tigers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 3 2019Cease (1-0) allowed three runs on four hits with four walks and six strikeouts across five innings while earning a victory against the Tigers during the first game of a doubleheader Wednesday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 30 2019The White Sox will call up<\/a> Cease from Triple-A Charlotte to start the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader with the Tigers.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 28 2019Cease is \"awful close\" to being promoted to the majors, per general manager Rick Hahn, Scott Merkin of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 21 2018Cease was promoted to Double-A Birmingham on Thursday, Daryl Van Schouwen of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.Cease met little resistance in his first taste of High-A ball, going 9-2 with a 2.89 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 82:28 K:BB across 13 starts (71.2 innings) before being rewarded with a promotion. The 22-year-old right-hander will look to carry his success to Double-A, but more importantly he'll look to stay healthy as he's never logged more than 100 innings in a season as a pro -- topping out at 93.1 frames in 2017.