Cardinals Expected to Shop Around Key Pieces This Offseason
As the St. Louis Cardinals approach the end of a disappointing 2025 season, the organization finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. Currently sitting at 77-80, the team is on the brink of elimination from postseason contention in the National League, prompting urgent discussions about the direction the franchise will take this offseason.
Assessing the Current State of the Team
After a campaign riddled with underperformance and unmet expectations, the Cardinals’ management and coaching staff must engage in some serious soul searching. While championship aspirations are typically the norm in St. Louis, the reality is that the team has struggled significantly, leading them to reassess both their roster and future strategies.
Derrick Goold from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch indicates that key players, notably Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado, are likely to be made available for trade. This is a reflection of both their contractual situations and the broader rebuilding strategy that the Cardinals are considering. Both players have been high-impact athletes in the past, but recent performance metrics suggest they may no longer represent the pillars the team once envisioned.
Financial Considerations
One immediate factor influencing the Cardinals’ decision-making process is the financial implications of their current roster. Gray and Arenado are slated to earn a combined $60 million next season, an amount that the Cardinals might find difficult to justify if the team is not in a position to contend. By moving these veterans, the organization could not only save money but also pivot to a farm-fueled model that seeks to re-stock the roster with younger, cost-controlled talent.
Evaluating the Players
Sonny Gray: Gray has had a solid career but hasn’t yet made an appearance in a playoff game as a Cardinal. His 2025 performance features a 14-8 record with a 4.33 ERA, marking his highest ERA since his time with the New York Yankees in 2018. While he still possesses the attributes of a frontline starter, this is a pivotal moment for Gray and the Cardinals. The team could benefit from leveraging his experience to acquire younger prospects or key pieces that align with their long-term vision.
Nolan Arenado: Arenado’s situation is slightly more complex. Known for his Gold Glove defense and powerful bat, he has battled injuries this season and holds a disappointing slash line of .236/.290/.365 with just 10 home runs and 49 RBIs in 103 games. These underwhelming numbers, coupled with his age and contract, make him a more challenging trade candidate. However, given his history and past performance, there is still potential for a team to see value in acquiring him, particularly if they are in need of an experienced third baseman.
Exploring Trade Scenarios
The prospect of trading Gray and Arenado could lead to various outcomes for the Cardinals. Considerations include targeting rebuilding teams that may be willing to take on salaries in exchange for prospects or established players that better fit a future vision. Additionally, the Cardinals might engage in discussions with competitive teams seeking to bolster their rosters for a playoff run.
For Gray, teams looking for starting pitching depth could come into play. The New York Yankees and Atlanta Braves, for instance, are clubs that might have the resources to absorb his salary and send back top-tier prospects. In contrast, Arenado may attract interest from teams looking for veteran leadership alongside reliable production, such as the San Diego Padres or the Boston Red Sox, depending on their needs for third base options.
Future Outlook
While the idea of moving on from recognized stars can induce sentimentality, it’s essential to recognize the strategic necessity behind such decisions. The Cardinals’ potential shift towards a younger, more dynamic roster could rejuvenate a fanbase that has grown accustomed to success. Investing in player development and scouting through trades could yield a new wave of talent ready to compete in the near future.
The 2026 season awaits the Cardinals and could mark the beginning of a new chapter. By engaging in intelligent trade conversations this offseason, the organization has an opportunity to retool its roster and place a renewed emphasis on nurturing young talent from their farm system.
Conclusion
The St. Louis Cardinals have historically been an organization built on strong player development and a winning culture, but the current roster dynamics present a challenging scenario. With plenty of speculation surrounding Sonny Gray and Nolan Arenado, it remains to be seen how active the Cardinals will be in the trade market this offseason. These decisions are crucial as they could define the team’s competitive landscape for years to come. Transitioning to a more sustainable model centered around young talent could not only benefit the team on the field but restore the trust and hope of a loyal fanbase eager for another championship run.
This offseason is a critical window for the organization, one that may ultimately set the stage for the Cardinals to reclaim their place among the elite in Major League Baseball. The choices made now could shape the team’s identity for seasons to come, and fans will be eagerly watching as the organization navigates this transformative period.
