In a recent development, the New York Yankees have reportedly made an offer to the Chicago White Sox for right-handed starter Dylan Cease. This comes at a significant moment, with Yankees' ace Gerrit Cole undergoing tests on his pitching elbow.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Yankees have decided to re-engage with the White Sox just a day after Cole's MRI was announced. The talks surrounding Cease have been gaining steam across the league, with the Texas Rangers also reportedly showing interest.

For Cease, who has been no stranger to trade rumors in recent months, the constant chatter has become nothing but background noise. The 28-year-old pitcher remains focused on his performance, stating that being overly concerned with trade talks would affect his ability to excel on the mound.

While the specifics of the Yankees' offer to the White Sox remain unclear, it is believed that outfield prospect Spencer Jones is not included. Previous reports have suggested that the White Sox value Jones, a promising 22-year-old outfielder with tremendous power potential.

Last season, Cease struggled to replicate his breakout 2022 campaign, recording a 4.58 ERA and a 2.71 strikeout-to-walk ratio compared to his stellar 2.20 ERA and 2.91 strikeout-to-walk ratio the previous year. However, Cease's remaining one year of team control after this season makes him an appealing trade asset for potential suitors.

Despite his regression in performance, several factors make Cease an attractive target on the trade market. CBS Sports highlighted his exceptional slider but noted that he throws it in the zone only 37% of the time, below the league-average rate for starting pitchers in 2023. Improving his slider command could result in lower walk rates and keep batters off balance by not relying solely on his fastball.

In the event that Cole requires an absence, the Yankees have explored other options. This includes potentially signing free-agent left-hander Blake Snell, pursuing a different Chicago-based starter, or considering internal promotions.

As the negotiations between the Yankees and White Sox continue, the outcome of this potential trade could significantly impact both teams' pitching rotations. Cease's future remains uncertain, but the Yankees are exploring all possibilities to bolster their lineup in the wake of Cole's injury concerns.

Only time will tell how this story unfolds, but the Yankees are actively taking steps to ensure they have a formidable starting rotation for the upcoming season.

(Note: This article is generated solely based on the information provided and does not include any additional details or speculative content.