Players that the Cardinals could trade at the deadline, potentially streamlining their roster, while still maintaining their competitive edge:
Cardinals on a Roll: Filling the Gaps in their Roster
The St. Louis Cardinals are giving a fierce competition in the National League and are within striking distance of the NL Central lead after an impressive May. However, there are still some weaknesses in their roster that they could address while also setting themselves up for the future.
The Cardinals have repeatedly pointed out their shortage of starting pitchers in the minor leagues as a major issue, with Michael McGreevy's dominance in Triple-A being a clear indication. Apart from this, they might also benefit from more depth around the infield or some immediate firepower in the outfield. To fill these voids, I've identified potential trade pieces from the current roster and some players in Memphis who might be redundant, helping bridge other gaps.
Multiple Trade Options for the Cardinals
Jose Barrero
After a blazing start in Triple-A, Jose Barrero found himself on the bench, with limited playing time under manager Oli Marmol. Originally called up to fill in for Masyn Winn's injuries, Barrero made an impact, knocking a home run and a double with three RBIs in his first three starts with the team. However, with Winn fully recovered, Barrero's opportunities have been sparse, starting only once since May 10.
Once a highly-touted prospect, Barrero might not fetch a high return in a deal, but he could provide a useful depth option for a contending team or be a valuable lottery ticket for a young team with opportunities in the infield. Sending Barrero packing could free up a roster spot for Thomas Saggese or Jose Fermin, depending on the role Marmol needs to fill on the bench.
Yohel Pozo
Third-string catcher Yohel Pozo could be another piece the Cardinals consider trading. Despite minimal playing time since Ivan Herrera's return, Pozo has maintained a solid .320 average in six starts this month. As Herrera stabilizes his role behind Pedro Pages, it might be in both the team's and Pozo's best interest to find a new team. With Leonardo Bernal and Rainiel Rodriguez waiting in the lower levels, returning Pozo to Triple-A could be beneficial.
As the Cardinals push for a playoff spot, strategically trading underperforming or redundant players could help them balance their roster, improve their minor league depth, and position themselves for long-term success. Novice baseball enthusiasts might find it intriguing to see how the Cardinals' trade activities can lay the groundwork for their future success.
The Cardinals might consider trading Jose Barrero, a promising infielder with limited playing time, to provide depth for a contending team or as a valuable asset for a young team with infield opportunities. Trading third-string catcher Yohel Pozo, who has maintained a solid average in minimal playing time, could also benefit both parties as Leonardo Bernal and Rainiel Rodriguez wait in the lower levels, helping the Cardinals manage their roster effectively while positioning themselves for long-term success.
