As the MLB trade deadline quickly approaches, the St. Louis Cardinals find themselves immersed in trade rumors involving several major players on their roster.
One name that has garnered significant attention is starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery.
Reports suggest that Montgomery could be a strong trade candidate for the Cardinals to trade.
Montgomery, 30, has been a consistent force in the Cardinals starting rotation this season, boasting a 6-7 record, accompanied by an impressive 3.23 ERA and 1.22 WHIP.
His performance on the mound has caught the eye of several contending teams in need of reliable pitching help. The Houston Astros, in particular, have expressed interest in acquiring Montgomery to bolster their rotation.
While Montgomery’s potential departure has been widely discussed, other players in St. Louis are also generating trade buzz as well.
Starting pitchers Adam Wainwright and Jack Flaherty have also been listed as possible trade candidates, although it seems unlikely that Wainwright, who is nearing the end of his career, will be moved.
Additionally, there are indications that the Cardinals could part ways with shortstop Paul DeJong, who has a $12.5 million team option for next season.
With promising prospect Masyn Winn waiting in the wings, DeJong’s departure appears to make sense for the team’s long-term plans.
The Cardinals bullpen could also undergo some changes, with relievers Chris Stratton, Drew VerHagen, and Jordan Hicks all slated to become free agents this winter.
Among them, Hicks, with a respectable 3.93 ERA and 1.50 WHIP, is expected to attract the most interest from potential suitors.
Furthermore, trade rumors suggest that the Cardinals might consider trading a young position player for a controllable starting pitcher.
Jordan Walker, a former top prospect, has emerged as a potential trade piece for St. Louis, as the team looks to secure a reliable arm for the future.
Despite the ongoing rumors surrounding the Cardinals’ roster, attention has also shifted to eight-time All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado.
Recently, Arenado spoke about the possibility of being traded, acknowledging that he understands the nature of the game. However, considering his impact on the field and his contract, which runs through the 2027 season, it seems unlikely that the Cardinals would trade him unless they were offered a significant package in return.
In addition to Montgomery and Arenado, utilityman Tommy Edman and catcher Willson Contreras, who joined the Cardinals this past winter, are also mentioned as potential trade candidates.
The Cardinals will have to weigh their options carefully as they navigate the trade market in pursuit of strengthening their roster.
Another player who could attract attention is Cardinals closer Giovanny Gallegos. The 25-year-old reliever has been solid for St. Louis since joining the team in 2018, posting a commendable 3.02 ERA and a 0.92 WHIP.
With Gallegos signed through next season, the Cardinals might consider moving him if the right deal presents itself.
It’s been a terribly disappointing season for a franchise who certainly isn’t used to underperforming.
With no shortage of sexy names potentially available, who would you want your team to pluck from the Cardinals?