Sat Sep 20 00:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Cease’s Uneven Season Baffles Padres as Playoffs Loom

**SAN DIEGO, CA -** After a promising first season with the San Diego Padres in 2024, starting pitcher Dylan Cease is experiencing a perplexing dip in performance this year, leaving manager Mike Shildt searching for answers. Cease, acquired from the White Sox in a trade, posted a stellar 3.47 ERA and 4.2 WAR last season, establishing himself as a key member of the Padres’ rotation.

However, the 2025 season has been a different story. Cease’s ERA has ballooned to 4.59, his highest since his rookie year. “It’s interesting, but I don’t know how to explain it,” Shildt told reporters, admitting his confusion regarding the right-hander’s inconsistency. “You see these things take place in the course of a season…In this case specific to Dylan, I don’t have a real clear explanation.”

While Cease’s overall season numbers are below his career averages, there’s a glimmer of hope as the playoffs approach. The 29-year-old has strung together three impressive starts in September, posting a 2.40 ERA and a 2-0 record. “Despite making 30 starts this season, Cease said he’s feeling as good as you can this time of year.”

Cease is scheduled for two more starts before the regular season ends, including a highly anticipated matchup against his former team, the Chicago White Sox, on Friday night. The Padres, currently chasing the Dodgers for the NL West crown, will look to Cease to continue his strong September performance and help solidify their playoff positioning.

As of Wednesday, the Dodgers hold a two-game lead over San Diego in the NL West as both teams have struggled in the final stretch of the season. With the playoffs on the horizon, the Padres are hoping Cease can rediscover his 2024 form and become a crucial asset in their postseason run.

[By Patrick Warren, Inside the Padres]

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