The St. Louis Cardinals could face another year without postseason action, potentially extending their playoff drought into next season. If the team struggles to stay competitive, they may opt to trade key impending free agents at the trade deadline, focusing on rebuilding rather than chasing a playoff spot.
Among the players who could be on the move is Ryan Helsley, the 2021 National League Reliever of the Year. With his contract set to expire after the 2025 season, Helsley’s strong bullpen presence makes him an appealing option for playoff-bound teams. If the Cardinals fall out of contention, moving Helsley would align with a broader strategy to trade veterans and invest in their future.
Another potential trade candidate for the Cardinals is Erick Fedde, acquired in 2024 from the Chicago White Sox. After a challenging start to his career with the Washington Nationals, Fedde revitalized his game in the Korean Baseball Organization and carried that momentum into MLB. His 3.11 ERA and strong performance for both the White Sox and Cardinals in 2024 made him a key part of St. Louis’s rotation, turning him into a valuable trade asset.
In 2024, Fedde posted a 9-9 record with a 3.30 ERA and a solid strikeout-to-walk ratio, showcasing his reliability on the mound. If he continues to pitch effectively in 2025, he could command a significant return at the trade deadline, bolstering the Cardinals’ farm system and aiding their rebuilding efforts.
The Cardinals’ approach to the 2025 season will largely depend on their early results. If they stay competitive in the NL Central, they may retain veterans like Fedde and Ryan Helsley to push for a postseason run. However, if the team falls out of contention, they are likely to embrace a seller’s role, trading players like Fedde to maximize their value and focus on building for the future.
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