This Twins All-Star could be the trade splash Padres fans have been waiting for

With Dylan Cease's departure from the Padres finally confirmed, it is time to move on from him and figure out which starting pitcher can be his replacement. There's plenty of options, but one particular arm should stand out above the rest.

Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins has been swirling the rumor mill as a likely trade candidate this offseason, and for good reason. Ryan was named to his first All-Star Game this year, and he would be the perfect addition to any team that can get their hands on him. The Padres need to seriously consider conjuring up a deal for him.

Twins' Joe Ryan would be perfect Dylan Cease replacement for Padres

Cease and Ryan actually draw plenty of similarities. They are both 29-year-old right-handers with a career K/9 north of 10.0. But Ryan might be better. He's lesser known than Cease, but his numbers are a little stronger and more consistent.

Ryan handed in a 1.035 WHIP this past season, but it was no fluke. He owns a career 1.063 WHIP through five MLB seasons, a major improvement from Cease's 1.265 career WHIP.

Ryan also logged 14 quality starts in 2025, along with 16 outings that ended with zero or one run allowed. He has the strikeout ability, but his strength comes from being to get outs regardless of it being a K. The star power is there, and he would fit in perfectly with San Diego. They need an ace to accompany Nick Pivetta at the top, and he may just be the guy.

Funny enough, Ryan has one start at Petco Park, and it was the worst of his career. He allowed a career-high10 earned runs across 4.2 innings, including five home runs on July 29, 2022. He certainly would like to redeem himself there. Ryan becomes a free agent in 2028, but rest assured, his name will dominate the trade rumor headlines all winter long. The Padres would be smart to check in on him.