Cardinals Likely to Trade Stars Amid Roster Shakeup

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — The St. Louis Cardinals are reportedly considering significant changes to their roster as the MLB trade deadline approaches. After losing veterans, including Paul Goldschmidt, to free agency, the Cardinals have faced speculation about trading star third baseman Nolan Arenado.

Recent reports suggest the Cardinals have explored trade options for Arenado, who has a no-trade clause that complicates potential deals. Jim Bowden, a MLB insider for The Athletic, mentioned that while Arenado has cleared trades to six teams, the Detroit Tigers are not on that list.

Arenado, 34, is enjoying a solid season, with a batting average of .254 and nine doubles. He remains a strong defender, ranking highly in outs above average, which measures fielding range. His leadership would be an asset for a young Tigers team, but any trade hinges on Arenado’s willingness to accept the move.

In addition to Arenado, the Cardinals could look to trade pitchers Erick Fedde and Sonny Gray. Fedde’s contract expires at the end of the season, making him a likely candidate for a trade. Gray, who has a couple of years left on his contract, might attract more interest from teams seeking a proven starter. The Baltimore Orioles are reportedly in the market for both pitchers as they struggle to contend this year.

The Orioles have an impressive farm system, making a trade involving big-league ready prospects possible. Names like Heston Kjerstad and Dylan Beavers have emerged as potential additions in any deal with St. Louis.

Additionally, some media outlets speculate that the Cardinals might consider trading ultra-utility man Brendan Donovan, who boasts a .331 batting average this season. However, trading a player with multiple years of team control like Donovan may not align with the Cardinals’ plans to build for the future.

Detroit’s interest in acquiring top talent could lead to serious discussions, especially if the Cardinals finally decide to embark on a rebuilding phase. However, current performance and team dynamics will heavily influence these decisions as the trade deadline looms.