As Major League Baseball’s Winter Meetings approach, the St. Louis Cardinals are expected to be active on the trade market. This year’s meetings begin on Monday in Orlando, with many assessing the Cardinals’ outlook for the offseason.
Willson Contreras Trade Potential
The Cardinals are considering the trade market for catcher Willson Contreras, who has expressed openness to a move, despite his earlier preference to remain with the team. Currently, Contreras has two years and $36.5 million left on his contract, along with a $17.5 million club option for 2028. While the Cardinals are not urgent to move Contreras, they are monitoring interest as they explore trades.
Contreras’ Performance
- Contreras, 33, hit 20 home runs and set a personal best with 80 RBIs last season, which was his first as a full-time first baseman.
- Trading him could free up first base for Alec Burleson and ease payroll concerns.
Brendan Donovan’s Trade Value
Outfielder Brendan Donovan remains a highly sought-after player, but the Cardinals are reluctant to trade him without a compelling offer. Donovan had an impressive prior season and is slated to become a free agent after 2027, although this timeline doesn’t necessarily align with the team’s competitive aspirations.
Market Dynamics
- The Cardinals face pressure to manage their roster of left-handed hitters.
- Donovan’s value may be compromised if rival teams do not meet the Cardinals’ asking price.
Lars Nootbaar’s Position
Lars Nootbaar, another left-handed hitter, may also be in play for a trade, particularly since he will reach free agency in 2028. Although dealing him seems probable given the team’s roster strategy, recent heel surgery might complicate his marketability.
Nootbaar’s Performance and Recovery
- Nootbaar played a career-high 135 games last season but struggled with injuries, finishing with a .234 batting average.
- Despite these challenges, many teams view him as a player with significant potential.
Nolan Arenado’s Uncertain Future
Trading third baseman Nolan Arenado is a top priority for the Cardinals, yet it remains a complex issue. His full no-trade clause and preference to join a contender complicate potential deals. Last season’s experience suggests trading him will be a challenge.
Trade Considerations for Arenado
Factors influencing trade decisions for Arenado include:
- Flexibility in his no-trade clause.
- Development of the third-base market.
- Possible trade matches like Eugenio Suárez and Alex Bregman.
- Interest in Japanese player Munetaka Murakami.
Conclusion: Cardinals’ Winter Strategy
Under the leadership of president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom, the Cardinals are focusing on roster flexibility as they manage trade conversations. After trading Sonny Gray to the Boston Red Sox, they appear more open to including financial incentives in future trades. The team is committed to navigating the trade market effectively as they prepare for the offseason.
