From a distance, it’s hard to understand what the St. Louis Cardinals have been up to lately, aside from the fact that it’s not going well. For most of my 35 years, the Cardinals have generally been a competent organization, barring my earliest years. Not too long ago, they boasted the best corner infield duo in baseball, with Nolan Arenado at third and Paul Goldschmidt anchoring first base.
Fast forward to the 2024-25 MLB offseason, and it’s quite possible neither will remain with the Cardinals. Arenado could be traded, while Goldschmidt is set to hit free agency in his late 30s. Although both players are likely future Hall of Famers, it’s doubtful they’ll enter Cooperstown as Cardinals, as things just haven’t worked out as expected.
As John Mozeliak explores trade options for Arenado and Goldschmidt prepares to find a new team, the Cardinals could benefit from a strong stop-gap solution at first base if they’re serious about returning to contention. A solid option would be signing Anthony Rizzo in free agency. Known for his time with the Chicago Cubs, Rizzo has recently been a key player for the New York Yankees.
The direction the Cardinals want to take remains unclear, but whatever they’ve been doing isn’t working.
Anthony Rizzo could be the one to replace Paul Goldschmidt in St. Louis
We don’t need to overcomplicate this. All indications suggest Paul Goldschmidt is likely leaving. While a return isn’t impossible, it’s not something to bank on. As for Anthony Rizzo potentially joining the Cardinals, his decision might hinge on where Juan Soto lands. If Soto re-signs with the Yankees, Rizzo may want to stay, but Soto’s potential mega-deal could make retaining Rizzo financially challenging.
At this point in Rizzo’s career, he needs to choose between two types of teams: one competing for championships, like the Yankees, or one where he can play regularly, such as the Cardinals. Ideally, he might find a situation that offers both, but his and Goldschmidt’s free agency markets are closely connected.
Bringing in Rizzo could also help the Cardinals move on from the baggage left by Goldschmidt’s departure. While Rizzo once starred for the rival Cubs, baseball is a business, and players frequently switch to teams they once competed against, even within the same division. He wouldn’t be the first Cub to become a Cardinal, and he won’t be the last.
If the Cardinals are serious about moving on from Goldschmidt, they could do far worse than signing Rizzo.
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