Cardinals Face Challenge Against Surging Marlins Amid Trade Rumors

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The St. Louis Cardinals continue to struggle after the All-Star break, going 3-7 in their last ten games, including a disappointing series loss to the Colorado Rockies. They now find themselves nine games behind the NL Central leaders and 3.5 games out of the final Wild Card spot, making their upcoming three-game series against the Miami Marlins crucial.

The Cardinals, managing a rough season, are likely shifting to a sell mode as the trade deadline approaches. Team president John Mozeliak faces tough decisions as they attempt to balance playoff aspirations with future planning.

The Marlins come into this matchup on a four-series winning streak, going 7-3 in their last ten games, making them a daunting opponent for the Cardinals. The three-game series begins tonight, with game one featuring pitchers Edward Cabrera for the Marlins, and Andre Pallante for the Cardinals.

Cabrera, having a standout July, has a 2.66 ERA over 23.2 innings this month, striking out 23 while allowing just one walk. In contrast, Pallante has struggled significantly, posting a 5.58 ERA across his last 11 starts.

Game two will see Sandy Alcantara, who has been at the center of trade discussions, face Sonny Gray, who recently opened up to the idea of a trade if the right opportunity arises. Alcantara, despite a 1-4 career record against the Cardinals, shows promise with a solid 1.91 ERA in those matchups.

Finally, game three will feature Miles Mikolas for the Cardinals against Cal Quantrill for the Marlins. Mikolas is hoping to build upon a recent strong performance, while Quantrill has shown inconsistency but can deliver solid innings.

As the series begins tonight at 6:45 p.m., the Cardinals face not only a challenging opponent but also the pressure of the fast-approaching trade deadline.