In their quest to bolster their pitching staff, the Atlanta Braves have set their sights on Chicago White Sox ace Dylan Cease, according to recent trade rumors. After missing out on free agent targets Sonny Gray and Aaron Nola, the Braves have turned their attention to the trade market to find a suitable addition to their rotation.

Cease, who hails from Georgia, has emerged as a top trade target for the Braves due to his impressive track record and two years of control. The right-hander possesses the potential to become an ace, making him an attractive option for Atlanta's pitching needs. Notably, his ties to Georgia align with the Braves' strategy of acquiring players with connections to Atlanta and potentially extending them for the long term.

However, there are a couple of challenges that could complicate the acquisition and extension of Cease. As a client of renowned agent Scott Boras, the likelihood of securing a contract extension may be lower compared to other players. Additionally, Cease's affordable price tag and talent make him a sought-after asset, with numerous teams expected to express interest in acquiring the young pitcher. To secure his services, the Braves may have to part with a significant trade package, potentially including one of their promising pitching prospects such as AJ Smith-Shawver or Hurston Waldrep.

It should be noted that the exact details of the trade talks between the Braves and White Sox remain undisclosed. However, given the recent completion of a six-player trade between the two teams, involving Aaron Bummer and Michael Soroka, it is plausible that discussions have been ongoing for some time.

Braves' General Manager Alex Anthopoulos is known for making unexpected moves, often keeping trade negotiations under wraps until a deal is finalized. As the Braves work towards a major addition to their pitching staff, the true chances of landing Cease remain unclear. Nonetheless, it is evident that Atlanta is diligently working to strengthen their roster in order to make a deep postseason run.

With the offseason in full swing, baseball fans eagerly await further developments in the trade market, particularly regarding the Braves' pursuit of Dylan Cease. As teams continue to evaluate their needs and explore potential trade options, the landscape of the league could experience significant shifts in the coming weeks.