MLB Insider predicts Toronto Blue Jays ace Dylan Cease will be a Cy Young finalist in 2026
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When Dylan Cease signed a seven-year, $210 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, it raised the ceiling for the club heading into the 2026 season.
Dylan Cease became the centerpiece of a retooled Toronto Blue Jays rotation built to handle the grind of a full season, with quality arms from top to bottom.
Expectations for Cease go beyond just strengthening the rotation.
MLB insider Jeff Passan of ESPN believes a big season could be ahead. In his 2026 preview, Passan said it wouldn't be surprising if Cease finishes second in American League Cy Young voting.
Passan writes, "Cease has always been a stuff guy, and with a little bit of polish, his strikeout artistry has the potential to morph into something more. You don't find many 30-year-olds with ceiling left."
It's rare for a pitcher entering his 30s to still have that kind of upside, but Cease may be an exception.
His 2025 numbers took a slight step back. He made 32 starts with a 4.55 ERA-one of the higher marks of his career-while pitching for the San Diego Padres.
However, his strikeout totals remained strong, surpassing 200 for the fifth straight season, even as he allowed a career-high 21 home runs.
If he does finish second in Cy Young voting, he would likely trail Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers.
Cease has been in that position before, finishing second in the American League in 2022 with the Chicago White Sox and later placing fourth in the National League.
For Cease to reach that level of success again, command will be key.
Despite his swing-and-miss ability, he has consistently ranked among the league leaders in walks allowed.
Improving his control will be crucial to pitching deeper into games and limiting damage.
In a division loaded with offensive talent, pitching carries extra importance.
The Blue Jays have built a deep rotation, but their success may depend on Cease performing like the ace they invested in.
He has the arsenal and ability to be that type of pitcher. A fresh start in Toronto could be what finally helps him put it all together.
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| POLL | ||
MARS 17|119 ANSWERS MLB Insider predicts Toronto Blue Jays ace Dylan Cease will be a Cy Young finalist in 2026 Do you agree with Jeff Passan' prediction that Dylan Cease will by a Cy Young finalist in 2026? | ||
| Yes | 97 | 81.5 % |
| No | 22 | 18.5 % |
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