The St. Louis Cardinals sit just three games above .500 and remain in the NL Wild Card hunt, but a recent slump has left fans uneasy. With the trade deadline just over a month away, president of baseball operations John Mozeliak faces a tough decision: to buy or sell?
How the team moves will depend on whether the front office believes they can realistically contend. Historically, the Cardinals have clung to veteran players despite limited chances at a World Series. Their roster is aging and costly, the farm system lacks depth, and the future feels uncertain.
While the pitching staff has exceeded expectations, largely due to strong defense, the offense trails behind top NL teams like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York. Expecting the Cardinals to win the National League or seriously contend for the World Series seems overly optimistic.
Because of this, St. Louis should consider trading some key players while their value is still high, but history suggests they may hold on instead.
Miles Mikolas Should Be Moved Before Performance Declines
Mikolas entered this contract year with low expectations after a difficult couple of seasons. Despite this, he has been a serviceable mid-rotation starter. However, recent performances show decline, allowing 13 earned runs over his last 15 innings.
Though contenders may be interested in him as affordable pitching depth, it’s unclear if the Cardinals will trade him. Staying in the postseason mix might encourage Mozeliak to delay a rebuild, but Mikolas is unlikely to maintain current production. Moving him for even modest prospects would benefit the team’s depleted farm system.
Ryan Helsley Could Be a Valuable Trade Asset Before Free Agency
The Cardinals missed an opportunity to trade Helsley during the offseason when his value was higher. Now, his performance has dipped, with runs allowed in four straight outings and a rising WHIP.
Still, Helsley should attract interest as a top reliever. Teams may see potential for a rebound post-All-Star break. Since he’s a free agent after the season and the Cardinals seem reluctant to offer a big contract, trading him makes sense.
However, if the team prioritizes a playoff push, Mozeliak might keep Helsley around, despite ongoing struggles. Fans should prepare for Helsley to falter late in the season and depart in free agency next winter.
The Cardinals Should Finally Move On from Nolan Arenado
The team attempted to trade Arenado last offseason, but his no-trade clause and large contract blocked any deal. Interest still exists leaguewide, but only if the Cardinals cover most of his salary.
Though unlikely, trading Arenado would bring in long-term prospects and improve the farm system. At 34, he remains a valuable defender and offensive contributor, even if no longer an MVP-caliber player.
If the Cardinals choose to continue their postseason bid, offloading Arenado’s contract seems unlikely given Mozeliak’s past reluctance. This short-term thinking could lead to continued disappointment.
