Increase in Trade Value for Three Cardinals, Decrease for Two at Season Start
Loosened Lines:
Since the St. Louis Cardinals opted against offseason roster overhaul, whispers of a mid-season fire sale echo throughout the league. As May begins, the Cards find themselves in a 14-17 slump, dragging them three games under .500 and four behind the National League Central lead. Despite the lackluster start, many believe that come July, the Cards are expected to kick some players to the curb.
Let's dive into five potential trade candidates who could find themselves packing their bags for new ballparks before the season's end.
Three Cardinals seeing value spike, Two with drooping trade value since the season began
Nolan Arenado's trade value is climbing
During the off-season, the Cardinals shopped third-baseman Nolan Arenado like a hot commodity. Following contract discussions, Nolan seemingly agreed to a trade, provided it was to a select few teams.
A potential deal with the Houston Astros never materialized, as the Astros' trade of Kyle Tucker and the likelihood of letting Alex Bregman walk in free agency made Arenado hesitant. The Boston Red Sox, who had shown interest, were brought to a standstill following the signing of Bregman. If it weren't for the lack of action from teams like the Yankees, Dodgers, and Padres on Arenado's wish-list, a move may have taken place.
Heading into the season, Arenado seemed less than appealing to contenders, as his stats from the previous year painted a grim picture, and his hefty salary would have been a burden. However, this season, he's shown significant improvement in OBP, SLG, and wRC+, striking out relatively less than ever before.
This trend has teams salivating over the idea of adding a potential Hall of Famer who still displays stellar defense and could provide a much-needed power boost to their lineup. If Arenado continues on this trajectory, he'll draw interest from teams seeking a strong right-handed bat and top-notch defense at third base. Even with his eight-figure salary and no-trade clause, the improved play might just persuade potential suitors to accept the deal.
Jordan Hicks and Jake Woodford: A mixed bag
Relief pitcher Jordan Hicks experienced a rise in value as the 2025 season approached thanks to a return to form following Tommy John surgery – but questions about his durability and effectiveness versus lefties linger.
Starting pitcher Jake Woodford has faced a drop in value, primarily due to his inconsistent performance and a back injury that held him out for the majority of the 2024 campaign. However, with the opportunity to prove himself in the starting rotation, Woodford could regain value and attract potential suitors.
Justin Williams and Juan Yepez: Future unwritten
Outfielders Justin Williams and Juan Yepez are young, talented players who could fetch impressive returns in a trade. However, their limited Major League experience, coupled with their untapped potential, leaves their trade value somewhat uncertain.
As the Cardinals' missed opportunity for a roster reset lingers, themonth of July looms near. Will they succumb to the pressure and pull the trigger on trades involving their key players? Stay tuned to find out the dramas and twists that unfold in the St. Louis Cardinals' mid-season showdown.
Inspiration:
- Baseball America - St. Louis Cardinals: 2025 Trade Deadline Predictions
- MLBtradeRumors - St. Louis Cardinals Trade Rumors
- CBS Sports - Cardinals could still look to trade Jordan Hicks and more
- MLB - St. Louis Cardinals active roster
- mlbtraderumors.com - cardinals-have-quieted-on-nolan-arenado-trade-talks
- With Nolan Arenado's improved performance this season, contending MLB teams are showing increasing interest in acquiring the potential Hall of Famer, who could provide a power boost and top-notch defense to their lineup.
- The trade value of reliever Jordan Hicks has been rising as he returns to form after Tommy John surgery, but concerns about his durability and effectiveness against left-handed batters may dampen his appeal.
