The St. Louis Cardinals have just completed a turbulent first month of the 2025 season. While Willson Contreras and Nolan Arenado have been leading the offense, it’s taken some time for the team to get back on track after a shaky start. Despite their ups and downs, they remain within striking distance of the division leaders in one of the most competitive divisions in Major League Baseball. A shift in approach could potentially turn their season around.
Looking at the Cardinals’ lineup, there aren’t any glaring issues, but their youth is a significant factor. Players like Jordan Walker, Nolan Gorman, and Victor Scott II are still in the early stages of their careers and working to find their consistency, according to ESPN. That said, these young talents have all shown promising flashes, and the next step is for them to become more consistent both offensively and defensively.
St. Louis could play a key role in shaping the MLB trade market this season. Depending on their position in the standings, they could be either buyers or sellers. With a team on the cusp, determining the best course of action is challenging. While giving young players playoff experience is valuable, building assets for the future might be the smarter move long-term.
Based on the team’s needs, here are three players the Cardinals could target if they choose to go for a playoff push.
Miami Marlins Pitcher Sandy Alcantara
Sandy Alcantara, a former All-Star and one of the league’s leaders in innings pitched, has seen his performance decline since winning the Cy Young Award in 2022. However, much of his struggles can be attributed to the Miami Marlins’ consistently poor offense during his career. Despite these challenges, Alcantara remains one of the most prominent names on the trade market and could make a significant impact if he lands in the right situation.
The Cardinals’ starting rotation isn’t necessarily bad, but they lack a true ace. While Sonny Gray currently occupies that role, the 35-year-old may not be the long-term solution. Alcantara, at 29, would immediately take charge of the rotation. While St. Louis’ offense isn’t as explosive as the league’s top teams, Nolan Arenado remains a proven clutch performer for the Cardinals.
Alcantara will undoubtedly attract many teams this summer, and the Marlins will have multiple trade offers to consider. However, the Cardinals are well-positioned to put together a strong package of players and assets to entice Miami if they decide to move their former All-Star.
Chicago White Sox Outfielder Luis Robert Jr
Luis Robert Jr., another former All-Star on a struggling team, is another key trade candidate. Despite being linked to trade rumors for the past few years, the White Sox still have him on their roster, either due to a desire to keep him through their rebuild or because they haven’t received a strong enough offer. As mentioned, the Cardinals are one of the teams with plenty to offer if they decide to make a move.
Robert Jr. would seamlessly fit into the St. Louis lineup, either by moving Lars Nootbaar to center field or taking over Nolan Gorman’s spot as the designated hitter. Robert Jr.’s value lies in both his defensive abilities and his offensive production, having earned both a Gold Glove and a Silver Slugger award during his six-year career.
While the Cardinals already have a few veterans on their roster, manager Oliver Marmol could benefit from adding another experienced presence in the clubhouse. Robert Jr. presents a unique opportunity to mentor Jordan Walker, who can learn from and play alongside him. Both players are big, athletic fielders with powerful bats, but Walker still needs to find balance in his game. Robert Jr.’s experience would provide valuable guidance, helping the future star develop while also contributing to the present.
Washington Nationals First Baseman Josh Bell
Another player frequently mentioned in trade rumors, experts believe that Bell will be playing for a new team by the end of the season. However, it’s not because of poor performance; rather, teams looking to contend see his consistent power as a potential game-changer. While Bell is struggling in his tenth professional season, his past career suggests he’ll eventually snap out of his slump.
Bell is a player many teams will be looking to acquire at a low cost during the trade deadline. The Cardinals are an ideal fit for him, especially given the moves they’ve needed to make this season. With Ivan Herrera’s emergence, Willson Contreras is now St. Louis’ first baseman. While Contreras is doing well at first, it’s clear that he’s more comfortable behind the plate. Acquiring Bell would allow manager Oliver Marmol to shift Contreras back to catcher, potentially splitting time with Herrera, while Bell takes over at first base.
The Cardinals’ season is at a crossroads, with several possible outcomes. They could decide to trade veteran players like Ryan Helsley and Nolan Arenado, or they could focus on a short-term push for a playoff spot in the National League. Whatever direction they take, their moves at the 2025 MLB trade deadline will significantly impact the landscape.
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