As MLB’s offseason heats up, the Cardinals may largely stay out of the player-acquisition race, but they’ll still be central to the action in a different way. For the first time in decades, the team shifted to “sellers” at the 2023 Trade Deadline and, in another first, may now look to move more veteran players than they bring in. John Mozeliak, the president of baseball operations, called it a “reset” rather than a “rebuild.” Long-time Cardinals staples could be heading to new teams, marking an unfamiliar shift for fans.
The Cardinals’ star players—Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenado, Willson Contreras, Sonny Gray, Miles Mikolas, and possibly closer Ryan Helsley—are among those who might be traded. Arenado, Contreras, Gray, and Mikolas would need to approve any trades due to their no-trade clauses, but given their ages and careers, they may be open to joining a contending team instead of staying through a rebuild.
Goldschmidt, a free agent, won’t receive a qualifying offer from the Cardinals, as the team is reluctant to pay him $21.05 million for 2025. Likely suitors for the 2022 NL MVP include the Astros, Diamondbacks, and Yankees, as Goldschmidt aims to prove his value remains high.
Arenado, who has adjusted his offseason routine to regain his power, could attract interest from contenders like the Dodgers, Yankees, Mets, or Phillies. The Dodgers, in particular, may be willing to take on his remaining $74 million contract.
Gray, who chose St. Louis in 2023 for their winning tradition, may only approve trades to teams near his Tennessee home. The Braves, for instance, could be interested if they lose Max Fried to free agency.
Contreras, owed $59.5 million, could find a new home with a team in need of a designated hitter or first baseman, with the Astros as a potential suitor.
Closer Ryan Helsley, coming off a stellar season, could draw considerable interest due to his strong performance and his history with the franchise. Though he’s beloved by fans, he could bring back valuable prospects if traded to a team with a deep farm system, like the Orioles or Phillies.
The Cardinals signaled their approach by declining options for Kyle Gibson, Lance Lynn, and Keynan Middleton. It’s a tough time for Cardinals fans, as more departures appear likely.
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