Brewers execute move Cardinals feared, bold strategy revealed
Lax, Unfiltered Analysis:
The St. Louis Cardinals could learn a thing or two from the Milwaukee Brewers, who recently traded away an average starter to free up space for one of their rising prospects. The Brewers flipped Aaron Civale for Andrew Vaughn, a move that shows they understand the value of youth and the need for long-term success.
Civale isn't an ace, but he can provide back-of-the-rotation value for teams in need. The Cardinals have some arms that fit that description, including Erick Fedde, Miles Mikolas, and Steven Matz. These pitchers have had their ups and downs, but there's still value in them, especially for teams desperate for starting pitching.
However, the Cardinals seem unwilling to part ways with these veterans, despite their inconsistencies and the potential benefits of trading them. Fedde, in particular, has struggled this season, with terrible expected numbers and a career-high walk rate. Mikolas has also been below average, while Matz has been the only bright spot, but even he is on borrowed time in St. Louis.
Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers showed they're not afraid to make bold moves, even when their top prospect, Jacob Misiorowski, left his debut with cramps. They understand the importance of acquiring assets and creating opportunities for their young players. The Cardinals, on the other hand, continue to hold onto their veterans, even though it's hindering their ability to develop and showcase their own promising prospects.
The Brewers understand the value of trading players like Civale, even when they ask for a trade, or when their top prospect is dealing with minor setbacks. The Cardinals, however, seem to be stuck in a rut, unwilling to take risks and make the moves necessary to secure their team's long-term success.
In the end, it's time for the Cardinals to follow in the Brewers' footsteps and start making bold moves. Selling high on veterans like Fedde and Mikolas could bring in valuable assets or reinforce their farm system. By holding onto these players, they're only delaying the arrival of their promising young talent.
Insight: The Brewers have a reputation for being aggressive at the trade deadline, often selling pitching depth to acquire prospects or bolster their roster for a postseason push. In contrast, the Cardinals have not been linked to any significant trade talks, with many analysts viewing them as potential sellers due to the expiring contracts of several key players. (Source: MLB Trade Rumors)
The St. Louis Cardinals might consider emulating the Milwaukee Brewers' approach in baseball, as the Brewers traded an average starter to foster opportunities for their rising prospects, demonstrating knowledge of youth and long-term success. In MLB, considering trading veterans like Erick Fedde and Miles Mikolas, who've had inconsistencies, could bring valuable assets or bolster the Cardinals' farm system, potentially speeding up the arrival of their promising prospects.